Rockets fired near presidential palace in Kabul during prayers

At least three rockets landed near the Afghan presidential palace on Tuesday as the country’s leader Ashraf Ghani held outdoor prayers with top officials to mark the start of the Eid al-adha holiday, with the Islamic State (IS) group claiming responsibility for the attack.

The attack came at a time the Taliban continue a series of offensives to coincide with the final drawdown of US troops from the war-wracked country.

“Soldiers of the caliphate targeted the presidential palace...

KABUL:

and the Green Zone in Kabul with seven Katyusha rockets,” IS said in a statement.

IS has been accused in the past by Afghan officials of acting as a proxy for the Taliban -- particularly in attacks targeting civilian government workers.

The Eid morning holiday calm was shattered by incoming rockets heard across the heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses the presidential palace and several embassies, including the US mission.

President Ghani appeared not to flinch as he continued the prayer ritual. “The Taliban have proved that they have no will and intention for peace,” he said in a speech afterwards.

Interior ministry spokesperson Mirwais Stanikzai said three rockets had been fired from a pickup truck, but one failed to detonate. “Based on our initial information, we have no casualties,” he added.

The Taliban have capitalised on the last stages of the withdrawal of US troops to launch a sweeping campaign.