AFGHAN REBELS RENEW BOMBARDMENT OF KABUL

Afghan rebel forces launched a new rocket bombardment of Kabul at dawn yesterday and the Islamic government retaliated.

The rocket bursts also appeared to jeopardize United Nations efforts to arrange a temporary cease-fire to allow the evacuation of most diplomats and their families.

At least 1,800 people have been killed in two weeks of bloody factional fighting in Kabul, the UN said yesterday.