The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) has urged Pakistani forces to halt their attacks on civilian areas in Afghanistan and abide by international law. The IHRF labeled the firing on residential areas as “war crimes” and called for the United Nations and international human rights organizations to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.
According to reports, Pakistani forces have been using heavy weaponry and indiscriminate mortar rounds in provinces like Paktika, Khost, and Kunar, directly targeting civilians. These attacks have resulted in injuries to at least 17 civilians, including women and children, prompting families to flee their homes, raising concerns about a potential humanitarian crisis in the region.
The IHRF emphasized the significant psychological and material damage caused by the attacks on residential properties and agricultural lands, leading to financial losses and widespread fear among local communities. The organization stressed the importance of respecting international humanitarian law, distinguishing between military and civilian targets, and avoiding indiscriminate attacks that endanger civilian lives.
Meanwhile, local Afghan officials reported one fatality and 16 injuries following rocket and heavy weapon attacks by Pakistani forces in Kunar province. The shelling near Asadabad and adjacent homes has heightened fears of escalating border tensions, with Taliban spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat accusing Pakistan of targeting civilian homes near the border.
The recent escalation comes after the breakdown of a brief Eid ceasefire, with Islamabad claiming military operations against militants using Afghanistan for cross-border attacks, a claim disputed by the Taliban. Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have risen in recent weeks due to airstrikes, artillery fire, and mutual accusations.
