Afghan Minister, Haqqani Network Founder’s Brother, Killed In Suicide Blast

Wed Dec 11 12:35:13 UTC 2024: ## Afghan Refugee Minister Killed in Kabul Suicide Bombing

**KABUL, AFGHANISTAN** – Khalil Ur-Rahman Haqqani, Afghanistan’s Minister for Refugees, was killed in a suicide bombing at the ministry’s Kabul offices Wednesday, a government source confirmed. The explosion also claimed the lives of several colleagues.

Haqqani, a controversial figure who appeared publicly armed and was listed on a US sanctions list, was the brother of Jalaluddin Haqqani, founder of the notorious Haqqani network, and uncle of current Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani. His death highlights the ongoing power struggles within the Taliban leadership, with reports suggesting a conflict between a more pragmatic faction and those advocating a stricter interpretation of Islamic law.

While violence has decreased in Afghanistan since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) remains active, carrying out attacks targeting civilians, foreigners, and Taliban officials. Several high-ranking Taliban figures have been assassinated in recent times, many claimed by ISKP. The circumstances surrounding Wednesday’s attack are still under investigation, but initial reports suggest a suicide bomber was responsible.