WASHINGTON

The U.S. on Thursday strongly condemned a Taliban attack on American non-governmental organization Counterpart International.

"This violent attack is a senseless assault on the noble values that the organizations like Counterpart support, such as service to others, education, and inclusion," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

At least nine people were killed when four Taliban insurgents stormed the organization's office in the Shahr-e-Nau neighborhood in downtown Kabul following a suicide car bombing.

Clashes between the attackers and the Afghan security forces continued for hours in the heart of the capital’s bustling shopping and dining district.

Nearly two dozen civilians were injured following the attack in the densely populated area, which is surrounded by a number of public and private offices and commercial entities.

"We commend the brave Afghan security forces who responded to the attack and acted quickly to save lives," Pompeo said. "We extend our condolences to the families of the deceased and our wishes for a fast recovery to those wounded, and call again for the Taliban to stop attacking civilians intentionally."

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahed claimed responsibility and said Counterpart was targeted for their alleged "harmful western activities" inside Afghanistan.

Counterpart International runs peace building, youth participation, and women's opportunities programs in Afghanistan, according to its website.