The security situation continues to deteriorate in Afghanistan due to a series of attacks by insurgents. At least one person was killed and over 90 were injured when a truck bomb exploded early Monday in Kabul.

The interior ministry said a truck loaded with explosives blew up in the capital's diplomatic district. Gunmen then entered a nearby government compound and exchanged fire with security forces. Local media say those injured include schoolchildren. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.

More than 40 pro-government fighters were killed in the northern province of Baghlan. And at least eight election commission officials were killed in Kandahar Province in the south.

The attacks come as the Taliban are engaged in the latest round of peace talks with the US in Qatar.

Observers say the group wants to show its combat strength to gain an advantage in the talks.

NHK