UNAMA: At Least 18 Civilians Killed and 360 Injured in Clashes Between Taliban and Pakistan

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has released a statement expressing concern over the heavy civilian casualties resulting from the ongoing border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistani forces. According to preliminary reports, at least 18 civilians have been killed, and 361 have been injured in the violence.

UNAMA has welcomed the temporary ceasefire announced between the Taliban and Pakistan and urged both sides to protect civilians and prevent further loss of life. The mission emphasized the need for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, to avoid civilian casualties.

Escalation of Border Clashes
Since October 10, 2024, armed border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistani forces have significantly escalated, leading to a high number of civilian casualties. UNAMA has confirmed that the majority of civilian casualties have been recorded in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province, where intense fighting took place on Wednesday.

In Spin Boldak alone, at least 17 civilians were killed, and 346 others were injured. Additionally, UNAMA has documented at least 16 civilian casualties (1 killed and 15 injured) in the initial border clashes in the provinces of Paktika, Paktia, Kunar, and Helmand.

Casualties on Both Sides
The clashes have also resulted in casualties among the forces of both sides. Pakistan has confirmed the deaths of 23 of its soldiers, while the Taliban have reported the deaths of nine of their fighters during the first night of the clashes. However, no further official casualty figures have been released by either side.

Call for Ceasefire and Protection of Civilians
UNAMA has called on both parties to end the hostilities to protect civilians and prevent further loss of life. The mission reminded all parties of their obligations under international law to ensure the safety of civilians during armed conflicts.

The border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistan began on Saturday night and were temporarily halted on Sunday evening following a ceasefire agreement.

Conclusion:
The recent escalation of violence between the Taliban and Pakistani forces has led to significant civilian casualties, particularly in Spin Boldak district. UNAMA has welcomed the temporary ceasefire and urged both sides to prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international humanitarian law. The situation remains tense, and further clashes could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region.