UPDATE - Kabul truck bombing kills at least 80, over 300 wounded

UPDATES DEATH TOLL RISE, TALIBAN STATEMENT DENYING INVOLVEMENT, TURKISH AND INTERNATIONAL CONDEMNATION

By Shadi Khan Saif

KABUL, Afghanistan (AA) - At least 80 people are confirmed dead and more than 300 wounded -- most of them civilians -- following a massive truck bombing in the heart of the capital Kabul on Wednesday morning, officials said.

The Afghan government has not blamed the attack on any group, and the Taliban released a statement denying involvement.

The blast, close to the city’s diplomatic enclave and the Presidential Palace, was so intense that it shook the ground and shattered glass in various parts of the city. A huge hole was left at the scene of the explosion.

The huge blast severely damaged banks, a telecommunications firm, public and private properties, and foreign embassies, including the Turkish, German, and Iranian representations, but no Turkish casualties were reported.

Mohammad Ismael, spokesman for the Health Ministry, confirmed that 80 people lost their lives and some 319 were wounded.

“Our health officials in various public hospitals in the city are trying their best to save lives,” he said as many victims are in critical condition, and the toll is expected to rise.

Najib Danish, spokesman for the Interior Ministry, told Anadolu Agency that the attack happened when a tanker loaded with explosives exploded at Zanbaq Square close to the diplomatic enclave at around 8.30 a.m. (0300GMT).

The site of the blast is one of the most secure parts of the country, but the bomber managed to breach the police’s “Ring of Steel” around the diplomatic enclave and cause havoc.

-Turkey condemns attack

Turkey denounced the bombing, saying in a Foreign Ministry statement, "We strongly condemn this heinous terrorist attack, wish Allah’s mercy upon those who lost their lives, speedy recovery to the wounded, and convey our condolences to the brotherly Government and people of Afghanistan.

"The attack took place in an area where many government facilities and foreign missions are located. Turkish Embassy buildings also took damage due to the explosion. The embassy personnel are unharmed from the attack."

It added that Turkey will "continue to stand with the friendly and brotherly people and government of Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism."

The bombing drew international condemnation. German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said in a statement that the attack struck civilians and people in Afghanistan who are working to create a better future for the country.

India and Pakistan also condemned the attack. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said the blast caused damage to the nearby residences of some Pakistani diplomats and staff, leaving some with minor injuries.

The Taliban in Afghanistan denied involvement.

“Our fighters do not have the permission to cause such a huge blast without a clear target,” said Taliban spokesman Zabehullah Mujahid in a statement, claiming that the group condemns attacks that cause civilian casualties.