TIMELINE - Attacks in Afghan capital target officials, foreigners

REUTERS - Militants attacked a guest-house and hotel used by foreigners in Kabul on Wednesday, in an apparently coordinated assault on the Afghan capital less than a fortnight before a run-off vote in the presidential election.

Taliban militants have closed in on Kabul in the past year, mounting bold attacks inside the city and making travel to the west, south and east of the city dangerous for aid workers and government officials.

The second round presidential vote will take place on Nov. 7.

Here is a timeline tracing attacks in Kabul since 2008:

Jan 14, 2008 - Several Taliban gunmen storm the luxury Serena hotel near the presidential palace in a commando-style attack, killing six people, including a Norwegian journalist. The Norwegian foreign minister, staying at the hotel, is unhurt.

April 27 - President Hamid Karzai survives an assassination attempt while attending a military parade close to his presidential palace. Three civilians are killed as Taliban fighters fire guns and rockets at the official celebrations.