UN Warns of Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Northern Afghanistan

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has issued a warning about the critical situation facing residents in northern Afghanistan. Amy Martin, head of OCHA’s Afghanistan office, stated that after visiting the provinces of Balkh, Samangan, and Faryab in the north, she found the region still grappling with the aftermath of a recent earthquake and ongoing chronic drought.

According to Martin, families in these provinces are still recovering from severe earthquake damage, while the prolonged drought is compounding their already fragile livelihoods. She emphasized that although local communities are resilient and resourceful, the humanitarian needs in these areas remain extensive and continue to grow.

Martin added that sustained international aid is essential to address the current crisis in these provinces. She warned that without ongoing support, poverty, food insecurity, and broader social harm could intensify.

While the Taliban administration has failed to meet basic needs and has restricted access to both national and international resources, humanitarian organizations face increasing challenges in field operations and crisis response efforts.