Rockets land near presidential palace in Afghanistan

At least three rockets landed near the presidential palace in Afghanistan on Tuesday.

The Associated Press reported that the rockets hit shortly before Afghan President Ashraf Ghani was set to deliver a speech to commemorate the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.

No injuries were reported from the incident, according to the AP, citing Mirwais Stanikzai, the spokesperson for the interior minister. The rockets hit outside the palace grounds, which are heavily fortified.

The palace is located within what is known as the Green Zone, which is reportedly protected by large cement blast walls and barbed wire.

No groups have claimed responsibility for the attack, but police say they found a destroyed car parked on a nearby street that was used as a launching pad for the rockets, the AP reported.

Images on television captured Ghani and dozens of others kneeling for prayer when the first explosion was heard, Reuters reported. Most of the individuals continued with their prayers, but security guards were reportedly seen in the background moving toward the sound of the explosion.

Taliban insurgents reportedly denied playing a role in the attack, according to Reuters.

The rocket attack came as the U.S. and NATO enter the final stages of their withdrawal from Afghanistan. President Biden earlier this month said the U.S. military mission will end on Aug. 31, ahead of his Sept. 11 deadline that was set in April.

Concerns are rising, however, regarding the long-term stability of the Afghan government after U.S. forces leave the territory as the Taliban make gains in the country.

Ghani said the Taliban “have no intention and willingness for peace,” adding “we have proven that we have the intention, the willingness and have sacrificed for peace,” according to the AP.

The Hill has reached out to the Afghan Embassy in the U.S. for more information.