He condemned this terrorist attack which killed and injured a number of civilians. He stands in solidarity and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists.

He sent condolences to the families of all those who perished, both Afghans and those who were there to help them, noting that they ‘died serving the lives of others’.

Guterres expressed great concern about the present situation in Kabul, especially at its airport, where thousands of civilians sought to be evacuated after the Taliban took control.

This incident underscores volatility of the situation on the ground in Afghanistan but also strengthens our resolve as UN continues to deliver urgent assistance across the country in support of the Afghan people, Guterres stressed.

A few hours ago, Pentagon reported a ‘complex attack’ on Hamid Karzai airfield, causing several US and civilian casualties, the Al Jazeera reported.

pgh/Pll/msm / ifb