Afghan vice president survives assassination attempt that killed 10

A deadly assassination attempt on Afghanistan’s vice president struck downtown Kabul as U.S. officials in Doha struggle to bring the Taliban and Afghan officials together for peace talks.

A deadly assassination attempt on Afghanistan’s vice president struck downtown Kabul as U.S. officials in Doha struggle to bring the Taliban and Afghan officials together for peace talks.

The bombing hit during rush hour Wednesday morning and targeted First Vice President Amrullah Saleh’s convoy. Among the casualties were some of Saleh’s bodyguards, but the majority of the 10 killed and 15 wounded were civilians commuting to work, according to the interior ministry.

The high-profile assassination attempt comes amid a spike in violence nationwide as talks between Afghan officials and Taliban leaders have faced repeated delays. Clashes have intensified in provinces with significant Taliban control and influence. And in Kabul, targeted killings have risen despite a drop in large-scale attacks.

Shortly after the attack Wednesday, Saleh’s son Ebad, who was with him in the car, said they both survived. “I was alongside [Saleh] when our vehicle was targeted. I assure you he’s fine,” Ebad tweeted after the blast.

Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid tweeted that the militant group was not involved in the attack. No other group claimed responsibility.