A hotel near Kabul came under attack by the Taliban late on Thursday, triggering a gun battle with Afghan security forces.
Officials say insurgents armed with rocket-propelled grenades and heavy machine guns attacked the Spozhmai Hotel in the Lake Qargha area.
Hostages - including women and children - are reportedly being held in the hotel. The Taliban has claimed the attack.
Lake Qargha is a popular area favoured by Kabul residents.
