An explosion rocks central Kabul and a thick plume of black smoke can be seen rising from the vicinity of the sprawling US embassy in the Afghan capital, reports say. 

Warning sirens were sounded Tuesday at the embassy compound, which is also close to NATO headquarters in Afghanistan.

An Afghan official said a possible bomber carried out the attack which was followed by gunfire and claimed by the Taliban.

Afghan Interior Ministry Sediq Sediqqi said the area has been surrounded by security forces and there are fears of casualties.

Taliban militants have stepped up their attacks against foreign troops and Afghan security forces since announcing the start of their spring offensive last week.

By Press TV