UN Experts Condemn Pakistani Strikes on Civilian Sites and University in Kunar
United Nations officials have condemned recent artillery strikes in Afghanistan’s Kunar province that hit civilian areas and a university, calling for a swift, independent investigation and accountability for those responsible.
The strikes targeted multiple locations in Asadabad, including the Sayed Jamaluddin Afghan University and a student dormitory. According to local authorities, the attacks killed at least three people and wounded 45 others. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan documented the incident, stating that dozens of civilians were killed or injured. The mission emphasized that targeting educational institutions and civilian sites violates international humanitarian law.
UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett echoed these concerns, urging all parties to protect civilians and warning that escalating cross-border tensions could further deteriorate humanitarian conditions in the region. Bennett called for a transparent inquiry to determine responsibility for the strikes.
Reports regarding the official response from Islamabad remain mixed. Hurriyat reported that Pakistani authorities explicitly denied involvement in the attacks, whereas Khaama Press noted that no immediate official statement has been issued. The strikes occurred amid heightened security tensions along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.
The mission reiterated that all parties to the conflict must adhere to international legal obligations regarding the protection of non-combatants and civilian infrastructure, stating it is continuing to monitor the situation and verify casualty figures as more information becomes available.
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Where reports agree
- Pakistani strikes hit civilian locations and a university in Asadabad, Kunar province.
- UNAMA and UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett condemned the attacks and called for investigations and accountability.
- Educational institutions and civilian sites were explicitly targeted or hit.
- Local authorities reported civilian casualties from the incident.
- The strikes occurred amid heightened cross-border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Where reports differ
- Casualty figures: Local authorities report exactly 3 dead and 45 injured, while UNAMA states 'dozens' were killed or injured without providing exact numbers.
- Pakistan's official stance: Hurriyat reports Islamabad explicitly denied the attacks, whereas Khaama Press states there has been 'no immediate official response'.
- Minor spelling discrepancy in district name: 'Shiltan' vs 'Shultan'.
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