In a video message on Saturday, President Ashraf Ghani called on all militant groups to quit violence during the Holy month of Ramadan.

“On behalf of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, I urge all militant groups to accept the call of Afghan people on peace or at least avoid killing, conflict and violence during the Holy month of Ramadan in order to respect this sacred month,” Ghani said in the video message.

Meanwhile, a number of religious scholars and Kabul residents said war and violence in Ramadan is against the teachings of Islam and that they suggest that differences should be resolved through negotiations.

“War is forbidden in this sacred month but if someone stands against you and creates violence then you must stand against them in order to defend your country,” said Mohammad Ishaq, a religious scholar.

Kabul residents said they are tired of war and violence and that they urge insurgents to embark on ceasefire during Ramadan.

“I call on militants to stop violence during Ramadan,” said Zain-ul-Abuddin, a resident of Kabul.

“My message to those who commit violence is to stop war and join peace,” said Khalid, another resident of Kabul.

Few hours after the president’s message on Ramadan, Taliban responded the message with a car bombing in Khost province, killing at least 18 people.

President Ghani condemned the attack in a message posted by the Presidential Palace. 

“President Ashraf Ghani condemns terrorist attack on civilians in the south-eastern Khost province,” the Presidential Palace tweeted.