At least ten people were killed as guests staying at the Intercontinental Hotel in the Afghanistan capital of Kabul were caught up in an attack by suicide bombers.
Three Taliban attackers on the roof were shot dead by helicopters in a five-hour overnight gun battle and another three were killed. The hotel is popular with Westerners, although all guests are reported to be safe.
One guest who was caught up in the attack told the BBC he had experienced the most difficult hours of his life. Another guest described a scene of chaos and panic, with everyone running in fear. There had been a wedding party at the hotel, as well as a meeting of provincial governors.
The fighting took place in darkness as electricity was cut to the hotel and surrounding area. The attack started while many guests were in the dining room of the hotel late last night.