The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) has expressed concern over the targeting of civilian residential areas in the provinces of Paktika, Khost and Kunar by Pakistan’s military, calling for an immediate halt to the attacks and an investigation by the United Nations and other international bodies.
According to reports, Pakistan’s military targeted Asadabad, the capital of Kunar province, with artillery fire on Thursday evening, killing one civilian and injuring 17 others, including children.
Previous Pakistani airstrikes in various parts of Afghanistan have also resulted in civilian casualties. The deadliest of these attacks targeted a drug rehabilitation center in Kabul, where more than 400 people were killed and over 250 others injured.
In a statement, the IHRF said Pakistani forces, using heavy weapons, have struck civilian residential areas along the so-called Durand Line, including in Paktika, Khost and Kunar provinces.
The statement added that the attacks have “directly targeted civilians and their homes,” with at least 17 civilians, including women and children, reported injured so far.
The foundation noted that the use of heavy weapons has forced many families to flee their homes, raising concerns about a potential humanitarian crisis in the region.
According to the statement, indiscriminate attacks on residential areas that endanger civilian lives constitute clear war crimes.
The IHRF called on Pakistan to immediately halt attacks on civilians and to respect international law.
The IHRF also called on the United Nations and international human rights organizations to investigate these violations and take appropriate action against those responsible.
“Humanitarian organizations should provide urgent assistance to families displaced by the conflict or those whose members have been injured,” the statement said.
The foundation emphasized that during conflicts, the lives of innocent people—especially women and children—must be protected, stressing that preserving human dignity and adhering to human rights principles is essential under all circumstances.
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