Conflict – Civilian Areas in Afghanistan Hit Amid Rising Border Tensions
Conflict – Fresh concerns over civilian safety have emerged following reports of cross-border shelling along the Afghanistan-Pakistan frontier, with international observers urging restraint and accountability.
Rights Group Raises Alarm Over Civilian Safety
The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) has called on Pakistan’s military to halt attacks impacting civilian areas inside Afghanistan. The organisation described the reported use of heavy weapons in populated regions as a serious violation of international law and urged global institutions to take notice.
According to the group, multiple provinces along the disputed border—including Paktika, Khost, and Kunar—have experienced artillery and mortar fire that allegedly struck residential zones. These incidents, it said, have directly affected non-combatants and damaged homes.
Reports Indicate Injuries and Displacement
Preliminary information cited by the IHRF suggests that at least 17 civilians, including women and children, have been injured in recent attacks. The intensity of the shelling has reportedly forced families to leave their homes, raising concerns about a growing humanitarian situation in affected areas.
Local communities have also faced economic setbacks, with agricultural land and property suffering damage. Residents in border regions are said to be living in fear amid continued uncertainty.
Call for International Investigation
The IHRF has appealed to the United Nations and other global human rights organisations to investigate the incidents and ensure accountability. It stressed that under international humanitarian law, particularly the Geneva Conventions, parties involved in conflict must clearly distinguish between military targets and civilian populations.
The organisation warned that indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas could amount to war crimes. It further emphasised the importance of protecting human dignity and upholding legal obligations during armed conflict.
Afghan Officials Report Casualties in Kunar
Separately, local Afghan authorities reported that one person was killed and 16 others were injured following rocket and artillery strikes in Kunar province. The shelling reportedly affected areas near Asadabad, damaging nearby homes and increasing fears of further escalation.
Taliban spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat stated that the incident occurred on Sunday evening, adding that the wounded were transported to medical facilities for treatment. He accused Pakistani forces of targeting civilian locations near the border.
Escalation After Ceasefire Breakdown
The recent violence follows the collapse of a temporary ceasefire agreed upon during Eid, after which clashes resumed along the border. Pakistan has maintained that its operations are aimed at militant groups allegedly using Afghan territory to launch attacks. However, the Taliban administration has rejected these claims.
In recent weeks, tensions between the two neighbouring countries have intensified, marked by airstrikes, artillery exchanges, and mutual accusations. The situation remains fragile, with fears that continued hostilities could lead to a broader regional crisis.
Urgent Need for Humanitarian Support
The IHRF has also urged humanitarian organisations to step in and provide immediate assistance to displaced families and those injured in the violence. It highlighted the vulnerability of civilians, particularly women and children, during such conflicts and called for coordinated international relief efforts.
As tensions persist, observers warn that protecting civilian lives must remain a priority while diplomatic efforts are strengthened to prevent further escalation.