New Delhi: Airstrikes carried out by Pakistani forces in three Afghan provinces killed at least 28 civilians and injured 49 others, according to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan. The attacks have drawn condemnation from India and prompted the United Nations to renew its call for the protection of civilians during armed conflict.
The strikes took place on the evening of June 28 in Paktya, Paktika and Kunar provinces. Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting confirmed its security forces carried out military operations in the three areas.
According to the UN mission, the deadliest strike occurred in Chamkani district of Paktya province at around 11.30 pm local time. At least 22 civilians lost their lives and 47 others suffered injuries. Another airstrike in Gyan district of Paktika province killed six civilians. A third strike in Marawara district of Kunar province injured two children.
United Nations Secretary General António Guterres called for an immediate end to hostilities. Through his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, he urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure at all times.
India also responded to the incident. The Ministry of External Affairs expressed condolences to Afghan families who lost relatives and wished a speedy recovery for those injured. It described the attack as part of Pakistan’s pattern of reckless behaviour and reaffirmed India’s support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Pakistan stated its operations targeted militant groups operating from Afghan territory, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. Islamabad said the strikes targeted armed groups responsible for attacks on Pakistani security forces and civilians rather than the Afghan government.
