Violence Continues in Pashtun Areas Amid Ramadan, Civilian Casualties Reported
Violence persists in several Pashtun regions during the holy month of Ramadan, with reports indicating civilian casualties that have heightened the concerns of local residents.
Manzoor Ahmed Pashtun, founder and leader of the Pashtun Protection Movement, stated in a message on the social media platform X that in the Tirah area, four Pashtun civilians were killed and six others wounded during an operation by the Pakistani army. He further noted that protests held afterward in Orakzai were met with a security forces crackdown, resulting in four additional civilians, who had gathered for “peace and justice,” being injured.
Pashtun also claimed that in Afghanistan’s Behsud district, located in Maidan Wardak province, 17 civilians, including women and children, lost their lives in airstrikes attributed to Pakistani forces. This district has witnessed security incidents in past years as well.
He described these incidents as “serious violations of international law,” stating that such events have deepened fear and distrust among the affected communities.
According to the Pashtun Protection Movement leader, in recent days, clashes have continued between security forces and armed groups in other areas including Razmak, Shawal in North Waziristan, Mubarakshahi village in Mir Ali, Spinwam, Abakhel village, Dossali, Takhtkhail in Lakki Marwat, Azam Warsak in South Waziristan, Bajaur, and Bannu. These conflicts have also resulted in civilian casualties.
The Pashtun Protection Movement, which identifies itself as a civil movement advocating for Pashtun rights, reaffirmed its commitment to standing against what it describes as “injustices” toward Pashtun communities and pledged to support those affected.
