KABUL, Afghanistan – A massive explosion rocked Afghanistan’s capital early Saturday morning.

The explosion occurred near the main gate of NATO headquarters and the US Embassy. A plume of smoke rose from the area and could be seen from miles.

Afghan Defense Ministry spokesman says 3 civilians were killed and 70 wounded.

The explosion comes less than a week before the country will hold its second ever presidential elections. Violence has reached record levels in recent weeks, as the Taliban has stepped up attacks and vowed to disrupt the election.