In a devastating airstrike on a drug rehabilitation centre in Kabul, Afghanistan, over 100 people were killed, according to forensic laboratory sources. Witnesses and local officials reported gruesome injuries, with some bodies identified beyond recognition. Taliban officials claim the death toll could be much higher and have called for a swift investigation by international bodies.
Pakistan has denied targeting the rehabilitation centre, stating that its operations were focused on military installations and terrorist support structures. The cross-border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which have intensified in recent weeks, have seen accusations from both sides concerning harboring militants.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (Unama) condemned the attack, emphasizing the necessity for all parties involved to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians. Local officials indicated that around 2,000 people were receiving treatment at the facility, expressing concerns that the casualty figures could continue to rise.
Eyewitnesses reported explosions and subsequent chaos in the area as rescuers worked late into the night, trying to extract survivors. Family members of those who were at the centre gathered anxiously outside, desperate for news about their loved ones. Reports indicate that the Taliban's spokesman has stated that the number of casualties could exceed 400.
Calls for de-escalation have been made by various international representatives, including China's Foreign Minister, who has urged both Afghanistan and Pakistan to engage in dialogue and reduce hostilities. The broader context of this tragic incident highlights the ongoing volatility and complicated relations between the two nations, which have seen increased violence despite previous agreements for ceasefire.
Pakistan has denied targeting the rehabilitation centre, stating that its operations were focused on military installations and terrorist support structures. The cross-border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which have intensified in recent weeks, have seen accusations from both sides concerning harboring militants.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (Unama) condemned the attack, emphasizing the necessity for all parties involved to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians. Local officials indicated that around 2,000 people were receiving treatment at the facility, expressing concerns that the casualty figures could continue to rise.
Eyewitnesses reported explosions and subsequent chaos in the area as rescuers worked late into the night, trying to extract survivors. Family members of those who were at the centre gathered anxiously outside, desperate for news about their loved ones. Reports indicate that the Taliban's spokesman has stated that the number of casualties could exceed 400.
Calls for de-escalation have been made by various international representatives, including China's Foreign Minister, who has urged both Afghanistan and Pakistan to engage in dialogue and reduce hostilities. The broader context of this tragic incident highlights the ongoing volatility and complicated relations between the two nations, which have seen increased violence despite previous agreements for ceasefire.
