The American University in Kabul, Afghanistan is currently under fire according to multiple sources. Gunfire and explosions have been reported by numerous onlookers on social media, as well as by the Afghan interior ministry. According to NPR, hundreds of students are reportedly trapped on campus, along with professors and other administrators.
#AUAF – security forces have cordoned off the area. Officials confirm dozens of students & staff trapped inside. #Kabul
— TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) August 24, 2016
The attack began Wednesday evening during mealtime when several gunmen struck the campus. Ambulances and response teams were deployed to the university after shots were reported in the area. According to Al Jazeera, the university, an elite private institution, is typically packed with part-time students during the evenings; many are working professionals who take classes at night.
At least 19 people have been taken to the hospital, according to journalist Zaki Daryabi’s Twitter account, and many more may be injured. At least one person is believed to be dead. The U.S. State Department has advised American citizens to avoid movement and monitor news reports as the situation develops.
Update: Health Ministry says at least 19 people hospitalized so far after attack at #American #university in Kabul. #AUAF
— Zaki Daryabi (@ZDaryabi) August 24, 2016
Reports of attack on American University in #Kabul. Exercise caution, avoid unnecessary movement in the area & monitor news for updates.
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) August 24, 2016
Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Massoud Hossaini has also given a first-hand account of the attack to the AP. Hossaini reported that he heard an explosion and, upon further investigation, was shot at through a window. He remained barricaded in a classroom with several students, livetweeting the attack. He and a few of his companions were able to escape to a house nearby, finally concluding an evening of terror.
This is not the first time the university has been targeted recently. Several weeks ago, two foreign professors from the university, one American and one Australian, were kidnapped by gunmen. They still have not been found.
Update: As of Thursday morning, twelve people are dead, in addition to two attackers who were gunned down by the police, ending the siege.