The United Nations has confirmed that civilians were targeted in Pakistan’s recent military strikes on Afghanistan.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in Kabul, responding to the Pakistani airstrikes, stated that these attacks occurred during the nights of February 21 and 22 in Behsud and Khogyani districts of Nangarhar and in Barmal and Argun districts of Paktika.
A statement issued by UNAMA said:
“Preliminary figures of civilian casualties indicate that at least 13 civilians, including women and children, were killed, and 7 others were injured.”
Additionally, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan also confirmed the civilian casualties from the Pakistani military strikes on his X account, expressing deep concern.
Richard Bennett said:
“I am deeply concerned by reports of the killing of numerous children and other civilians following the recent conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan. I call on all parties to exercise restraint, protect civilians, and comply with international law.”
UNAMA has urged all parties to permanently end the fighting to safeguard civilians and prevent further casualties. The mission reminded all sides of their obligations under international law to apply the essential principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution to minimize harm to civilians.
