[8] At midday on Saturday, 21 May 2011, a powerful bomb was detonated on the grounds of Daoud Khan Military Hospital, killing 6 people and injuring 26.

[9][7] It was the work of a suicide bomber who set off the blast inside a tent on hospital grounds while medical trainees were sitting down to eat lunch.

"[9] International Security Assistance Force spokesman Vic Beck called the strike "abhorrent," saying it "represents the lowest, most cowardly attack.

"[7] The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a statement, "All medical personnel and facilities must be respected and protected in all circumstances.

Further, directing an attack against a zone established to shelter wounded and sick persons, and civilians from the effects of hostilities, is also illegal and prohibited.

As parties to the conflict, all anti-government elements have clear responsibilities under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and to not attack them," UNAMA said in a statement.

"[6] The U.S. Embassy in Kabul released a statement saying, "Targeting a medical facility providing care for the brave Afghans working to protect their fellow citizens has no possible justification in any religion or creed.