Asia Front

Afghanistan: Urgent Statement on Civilian Casualties in Asadabad, Kunar Province We are deeply concerned by credible reports of civilian harm following strikes in Asadabad, the capital of Kunar Province. According to multiple local sources, attacks attributed to Pakistani military forces struck residential areas as well as the Afghan Syed Jamaluddin University, resulting in significant civilian casualties. Preliminary information indicates that at least 48 individuals, including civilians and university students, were affected. Reports from local medical facilities confirm that dozens of injured individuals and several deceased victims have been received, many of whom are women, children, and students. Eyewitness testimonies suggest that the strikes directly impacted civilian homes and an active educational institution. One student reported that the incident occurred while classes were in session, causing panic and injuries among those present. Such accounts raise serious concerns regarding the apparent targeting of civilian objects. This incident reflects a troubling pattern of cross-border violence in Kunar Province, where previous strikes have reportedly resulted in civilian deaths, including among women and children, and damage to essential civilian infrastructure. Under international humanitarian law, all parties to a conflict are obligated to distinguish at all times between civilians and combatants, and between civilian objects and military targets. Attacks directed against civilians or civilian infrastructure—including educational institutions—are strictly prohibited. International Human Rights Foundation-IHRF call for: 1️⃣ An immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the incident 2️⃣ Full accountability for any violations of international humanitarian law 3️⃣ Concrete measures to prevent further harm to civilians 4️⃣ The protection and respect of educational institutions and other civilian spaces The repeated loss of civilian life underscores the urgent need for restraint and adherence to international legal obligations. The protection of civilians must remain an absolute priority. (IHRF has ample evidence of the said incident, which is not being shared here, because of the graphic nature of the evidence. However, the evidence is being recorded for a subsequent report to the UNHRC tribunal)