Sign in Subscribe
Afghan foreign relations

Ceasefire Between Afghanistan and Pakistan Welcomed by UNAMA, Protection of Civilians Urged

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan, announced by the Islamic Emirate's chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid. However, the ceasefire has been marred by reports of civilian casualties, including women and children, resulting from cross-border clashes. UNAMA has documented at least 33 civilian casualties, with at least 17 killed and 346 injured in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province. The mission has called on all parties to bring a lasting end to hostilities to protect civilians and prevent further loss of life.

Key Takeaways:

  • UNAMA has welcomed the ceasefire announcement between Afghanistan and Pakistan, but has expressed concern over reports of civilian casualties.
  • At least 33 civilian casualties have been documented, with 17 killed and 346 injured in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province.
  • The mission has called on all parties to respect the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution to protect civilians.
  • A ceasefire was established between the two countries after 5:30 PM on Wednesday evening, following a request from the Pakistani side.
  • Prior to the ceasefire, Pakistan targeted an empty residential house in Kabul, killing five people, including women and children, and injuring 35 others.
  • The Islamic Emirate's chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed the ceasefire, but did not comment on the alleged airspace violation by Pakistan.
  • UNAMA has emphasized the importance of a lasting end to hostilities to prevent further loss of life and protect civilians.

Statistics:

  • At least 33 civilian casualties have been documented, with 17 killed and 346 injured in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province.
  • At least 16 civilian casualties were documented from earlier cross-border clashes, with one killed and 15 injured.
  • A total of 222 people have been killed and 1,060 injured in cross-border clashes since January 2022, according to UNAMA.
  • The civilian casualties include women and children, and the exact figures are still being assessed by UNAMA.
  • The ceasefire established between Afghanistan and Pakistan has been in effect since 5:30 PM on Wednesday evening, but has been marred by reports of civilian casualties.

Sources:

  • Pajhwok: Ceasefire between Afghanistan, Pakistan welcomes villagers, but reports of civilian casualties.
  • United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA): Statement on the situation in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province.
  • BBC News: Afghanistan: Ceasefire declared with Pakistan but civilians reported killed.

Read more