Kazakh Doctor Describes Afghanistan as Still in ‘Wartime’ Condition

A Kazakh medical delegation returned to their country after completing a multi-day humanitarian mission in Kabul, with one senior member describing Afghanistan’s situation as ‘wartime.’ Serik Balgazarov, deputy head of Kazakhstan’s National Scientific Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics, stated that all surgeries performed in Kabul were heavy and complex, adding, “The civil war in Afghanistan continues.”

In a television interview, Balgazarov said many young people in Afghanistan suffer from injuries caused by landmine explosions, emphasizing that the country remains in a constant state of war. These remarks come despite the Taliban administration repeatedly claiming to have secured nationwide safety; nevertheless, field reports and doctors’ accounts of the high volume of war-related injuries highlight ongoing security concerns and their impact on civilians.

Regarding the mission’s purpose, he explained that the doctors worked regardless of religion and beliefs, united by the common goal of helping people. According to him, the mission focused on providing scientific and practical assistance to Afghan patients.

The delegation included specialists in surgery, traumatology, cardiovascular care, pediatrics, and urology. During their stay, they performed complex surgeries on critically injured patients and those with congenital abnormalities, collaborated with Afghan doctors for experience exchange, and participated in joint medical commissions.

As part of a program titled “Kazakhstan Medical Days,” a shipment of humanitarian medical aid was delivered to Kabul, including Ilizarov orthopedic devices used to treat complex fractures. The team was welcomed at the capital’s airport in Kazakhstan on Sunday, June 28, after completing their mission.