Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of committing 'war crimes' following a series of mortar and missile strikes on Monday that targeted northeastern Kunar Province, resulting in the deaths of seven civilians and injuries to at least 85 others. The attacks, which struck the Sayed Jamaluddin Afghani University and residential areas, have drawn widespread condemnation from Afghan officials.
Details of the Attack
According to Afghan authorities, Pakistani forces launched the bombardment on Monday afternoon, hitting the university campus and nearby homes. Students and professors were among the wounded, and the university sustained extensive structural damage. The attack marks the first major outbreak of violence since Chinese-mediated peace talks earlier this month, reigniting tensions along the disputed border.
Afghan Response
Abdul Qahar Afghan, a spokesperson for the Afghan government, stated: 'These attacks are a blatant violation of international law and constitute war crimes. Targeting a university and civilian homes is unacceptable.' The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Pakistan's charge d'affaires to protest the strikes.
Pakistan's Denial
Pakistan vehemently denied targeting the university, describing Afghan claims as 'frivolous and fake'. A Pakistani military spokesman asserted that their strikes are 'precise and intelligence based', aimed at militant hideouts. Pakistan maintains that Afghanistan harbours Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants responsible for attacks on its soil, an accusation consistently refuted by Kabul.
Broader Context
The incident has escalated the long-standing border conflict, which has claimed hundreds of lives over the years. The Chinese-mediated peace talks had raised hopes of de-escalation, but Monday's strikes have shattered the fragile calm. International observers have called for restraint and an independent investigation into the incident.
