UN Calls for Independent Investigation into Kabul Hospital Airstrike

Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, has urged an independent, rapid, and transparent investigation into the recent airstrike on the “Omid” drug rehabilitation Hospital in eastern Kabul.

He stressed that the investigation must respect international law and civilian protection standards while holding responsible parties accountable for the attack.

Bennett added that UN experts are calling on both sides of the conflict to agree to a permanent ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties.

According to previous UN statements, recent cross-border clashes between Pakistani forces and Taliban authorities have displaced over 115,000 civilians, creating a severe humanitarian crisis in border regions.

UN experts highlighted that from 26 February to the present, airstrikes and border clashes have caused at least 289 civilian casualties in Afghanistan, including 76 deaths and 213 injuries, with extensive damage to medical facilities, homes, markets, schools, and trade routes.

UN human rights officials condemned Pakistan’s 16 March airstrike on the Kabul rehabilitation center, expressing deepest condolences to families and wishing speedy recovery for the injured. They stressed that all parties must respect international humanitarian and human rights law.

In the past month, Pakistan has targeted more than ten Afghanistan provinces, including Kabul, Kandahar, Nangarhar, and Panjshir, citing counter-terrorism and military objectives against Taliban infrastructure. In response, Taliban authorities have signaled retaliatory measures, heightening regional tensions.

UN human rights experts called for full transparency, accountability, and cessation of violence to protect civilians. They stressed that adherence to international law is essential for long-term peace and regional stability in Afghanistan.

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