At least 30 people have been killed in a bomb attack on a private school in the Afghan capital Kabul. At least 56 others were injured, as hospitals reported to the German Press Agency. The attack took place on Friday morning in the district of Dashte Barchi, which is mostly inhabited by the Shia Hazara minority. The students are preparing for the university entrance exam. The Taliban ruling in the country spoke of only 19 dead and 27 injured.

According to an employee of the affected Kaaj Higher Educational Center, a suicide bomber killed two guards at the entrance before gaining access to a classroom and detonating himself there. He is also said to have shot students. Many girls are said to be among the victims.

No one initially claimed responsibility for the attack. The Sunni terrorist militia Islamic State had committed similar bloody deeds in the past.

Local residents reported being in shock. Photos on social media show people carrying away the injured after the attack. A video also showed the students before the attack: the numerous boys and girls there promise to advance their society together against all obstacles.

Since taking power, the Islamist Taliban have closed girls' schools from the seventh grade - contrary to their promises. Private educational institutions offer some older girls the opportunity to continue their education and then go to university. The Taliban have not taken any action against them either. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid condemned the attack and announced a search for those responsible.