Human Rights Foundation Calls for Independent Probe Into Pakistan Strikes
The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) has called for credible, transparent and independent investigations into reports that civilians were killed and injured in Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghanistan.
In a statement on Monday, 30 September, the group expressed concern over civilian casualties and said claims about the targets of the strikes and reports of civilian victims should be independently examined.
The International Human Rights Foundation stressed that Afghan civilians must not be treated as collateral damage in attacks. It also emphasized compliance with international law, protection of civilian lives and accountability for any violations.
According to the foundation, counterterrorism commitments do not remove the fundamental responsibility to protect civilians. It also called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to take immediate steps to reduce tensions, saying security should not come at the expense of civilian suffering.
Pakistan launched airstrikes yesterday targeting Barmal district in Paktika and Nurgal district in Kunar. As a result of the strikes, three civilians were killed and four others were wounded.
Barmal district in Paktika province and Nurgal district in Kunar province are among areas near the border with Pakistan, regions that have previously also occasionally witnessed border tensions and similar attacks.
