At Least Six Slain in Militant Attack on Kabul Hotel

A report prepared by the U.S. Embassy in Kabul warns of a secondary attack.

ByABC News
January 14, 2008, 4:18 PM

Jan. 14, 2008 — -- According to an internal report prepared by the U.S. Embassy in Kabul and described to ABC News, the militant assault on a luxury hotel in Afghanistan appears to have been a coordinated attack..

The report warns that a secondary attack could be "imminent," though it does not explain the reason for those fears or what the target might be.

According to the report, the attack on the Serena Hotel, a popular spot among foreign nationals in Kabul, began when a rocket-propelled grenade round was fired into the entrance of the hotel. Four Afghan insurgents then entered the hotel compound wearing suicide vests. At least two of them were able to detonate themselves, the report said.

At least six people were killed in the attack.

According to the embassy report, U.S. and Afghan forces were able to respond quickly, and 27 foreign nationals, including 10 to 12 American citizens, were evacuated to the U.S. Embassy for medical treatment.

One American citizen was killed in the assault according to State Department officials, who spoke only on the condition of anonymity, since the official announcement has not yet been sent out. The officials refused to provide further details pending notification of the victim's family.

State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said the attack appeared coordinated but refused to provide details of any casualties. When asked about a Taliban claim of responsibility, McCormack said only that "I'm not in a position to confirm that, but I am also not in a position to dispute it as well."