The bombings during a huge protest over a power transmission line could deepen sectarian divisions in a country well known for communal harmony despite decades of war. (AFP photo)KABUL - Islamic State jihadists claimed responsibility for twin explosions Saturday that ripped through crowds of Shiite Hazaras in Kabul, killing at least 61 people and wounding 207 others in apparently their deadliest attack in the Afghan capital. But the government re-routed it through the mountainous Salang pass north of Kabul, saying the shorter route would speed up the project and save millions of dollars. "The death toll has jumped to 61 and 207 others have been wounded," Health Ministry spokesman Mohammad Ismail Kawoosi told AFP, adding that the toll could rise further. The wounded overwhelmed city hospitals, officials said, with reports emerging of blood shortages and urgent appeals for donors circulating on social media.

Source: Bangkok Post July 23, 2016 13:52 UTC