Khalid Zadran, spokesperson for the Kabul Police Command, announced on Monday (January 19, 2026) that a powerful explosion occurred in the city center around 3:00 p.m. The blast took place near the kitchen of the “Chinese Noodle” restaurant in the Gul-Froshi (Flower Sellers) Alley area of Shahr-e-Naw, Kabul.
Kabul 24: This restaurant is jointly owned and operated by Afghans and Chinese Muslims.According to Zadran, the explosion killed 7 people, including one Chinese citizen named Ayub (who was Muslim) and six Afghan nationals. Several others were injured, with some reported to be in critical condition. The spokesperson stated that the exact nature of the explosion remains unclear—whether it was a bomb, gas leak, or another cause—and that security and technical investigations are ongoing.
The “Chinese Noodle” restaurant is a joint venture run by Abdul Majid, a Muslim Chinese man from Xinjiang province, his wife, and an Afghan partner named Abdul Jabbar.
The establishment specializes in halal Chinese cuisine, catering primarily to the Chinese Muslim community in Kabul as well as other customers. Abdul Majid has focused on providing food that meets both cultural tastes and religious dietary requirements of his fellow Muslims.
The incident occurred in Shahr-e-Naw, one of Kabul’s relatively secure and commercial districts, home to offices, shopping centers, and embassies.
Despite the area’s high security presence, such attacks highlight the persistent security challenges in the Afghan capital. Taliban authorities have not yet attributed responsibility to any group, and inquiries continue to determine the full circumstances.
Eyewitnesses described a very loud blast followed by thick smoke engulfing the area. Security forces quickly cordoned off the site and launched on-site investigations. The attack has once again drawn attention to the safety of foreign minorities and joint businesses in Kabul.
The Chinese Muslim community—particularly Uyghurs and others—frequently used this restaurant as a gathering place for meals and social interaction.No group has claimed responsibility so far, and officials stress that the investigation is active.
Families of the victims are in mourning, and hopes are for the speedy recovery of the injured.
