A series of explosions has hit the Afghan parliament in the capital, Kabul, and a number of attackers then raced into the building, BBC News reports.

Police are trying to evacuate the parliament which is still under attack.

The incident happened as new Defence Minister Massoom Stanekzai was being introduced to MPs, who need to endorse him.

The Taliban have claimed the attack. Local media report another explosion in the Dahmazang area of Kabul city.

Television was broadcasting live from the building when the explosion struck and MPs were seen leaving the building.