At least 13 individuals, including women and children, lost their lives in Pakistan’s airstrikes on Nangarhar and Paktika in Afghanistan, as reported by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). The strikes occurred in Bahsud and Khogiani districts of Nangarhar on February 21–22, resulting in 13 fatalities and seven injuries. UNAMA criticized the attacks, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law to safeguard civilians from harm.
A school and a mosque were struck in Paktika’s Barmal district, alongside the destruction of a house in Orgun district of Paktika. The UNAMA called for transparent investigations and accountability following the airstrikes, stressing the necessity of protective measures for individuals residing in conflict-affected areas. Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated recently, prompting concerns over civilian safety amidst heightened military activities.
The Afghan Ministry of National Defence accused the Pakistani military of conducting airstrikes in residential areas of Nangarhar and Paktika provinces, resulting in civilian casualties. The Ministry denounced the violation of Afghan airspace, labeling it as a breach of international law and Afghan sovereignty. Emphasizing the obligation to protect the nation’s security and people, the Ministry warned of a measured response to such acts of aggression in due course.
