31 Die as Rocket Attacks Shatter Tenuous Peace in Afghan Capital

KABUL, Afghanistan — Rockets slammed into a crowded market, a mosque and an apartment complex Sunday, shattering two weeks of relative calm in the capital. Witnesses said at least 31 people died and 60 were wounded.

The Islamic government blamed the attack on Hezb-i-Islami, a dissident guerrilla faction. But the group’s leader, radical fundamentalist Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, denied responsibility.

Since fighters of the various Muslim factions ousted the Communists in April, Kabul has been periodically bombarded by Hezb-i-Islami and its allies. Tens of thousands of people have been killed or wounded.

On Feb. 13, the factions called a truce so Pakistani mediators could try to negotiate a lasting peace. But the talks have been hampered by the bitter rivalry between Hekmatyar and Defense Minister Ahmed Shah Masoud.

Two rockets hit Furshgah market Sunday morning, spraying searing shrapnel and sending scores of shoppers running for cover. Blood covered the ground and splattered overturned stands, mixing with vegetables and dried fruit. Witnesses said at least 14 people were killed.

An hour later, a rocket crashed into Pul-i-Kheshti, the city’s main mosque, where children were carrying water for prayers. Witnesses said at least five were killed.

A rocket also exploded in the courtyard of an apartment complex in eastern Kabul, killing 10 children and two women, residents said.