The Pakistani strike on the rehab center for drug addicts has resulted in more than 100 deaths. Taliban official claim that there were even higher casualties.
The UN has called for an investigation into the incident immediately, with a focus on protecting civilians.
Pakistan denies targeting civilians
Pakistan claimed the attacks targeted the militants’ sites and military infrastructure. It also said that it had been an accurate attack. Tensions have risen between Pakistani border areas and Afghan regions since Islamabad said Kabul shelters militants. Afghanistan rejects this claim.
Rehab center is no longer a base of military but a place for safe spaces
Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital became a rehabilitation centre after the Taliban took power in 2021. Afghan authorities claim there are no military bases near the location.
The Rescue and Eyewitness Experience
Residents in Kabul heard explosions around 8:50pm local, followed by aircraft and air defense responses. They searched for survivors until the early morning. The rescuers discovered charred remains and bodies as well as personal items.
Contradictory Death Toll Reported
An unknown independent confirmation did not confirm the Taliban’s claim that 400 people were killed. Observers reported on site that over 30 bodies were being transported away in stretchers.
A Call for International Ceasefire and Response
China actively intervenes in the mediation process. Wang Yi, the Foreign Minister, has addressed Afghan and Pakistani officials, calling for restraint and dialogue.
Between February 26th to March 13th, ongoing border clashes in Afghanistan resulted 75 fatalities and 193 injured. Despite an earlier ceasefire agreement in October, this latest attack has escalated tensions.
