Afghanistan Accuses Pakistan of Deadly Airstrikes in Kabul, Seeks Global Condemnation

Kabul, March 2026 : Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Tuesday levelled serious allegations against Pakistan, accusing its military of carrying out deadly airstrikes in Kabul that he claimed killed over 408 people and injured more than 265 others. He described the incident as a grave humanitarian violation and compared it to actions seen in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Addressing ambassadors, heads of diplomatic missions, and representatives of international organisations in Kabul, Muttaqi said the strikes were conducted on the night of March 16, around 9 p.m., by Pakistani military aircraft and drones. He alleged that the operation specifically targeted vulnerable civilians—individuals undergoing drug rehabilitation treatment under Afghan government programmes supported by humanitarian agencies.

According to him, the victims included drug-dependent individuals receiving care and support, making the attack particularly alarming from a humanitarian standpoint. He also warned that the casualty figures could rise further as rescue and assessment operations continue.

Muttaqi strongly criticised Pakistan’s military establishment, accusing it of disregarding both Islamic principles and internationally accepted norms of warfare. He claimed that civilian and humanitarian facilities were deliberately targeted, calling the strikes unjustifiable and inhumane.

The timing of the alleged attack also drew sharp criticism. Muttaqi noted that it occurred during the final days of the holy month of Ramadan and on the eve of Eid al-Fitr, which he said reflected a lack of respect for religious values and human life.

In a strongly worded appeal, the Afghan minister urged the international community—including governments, religious scholars, media organisations, and civil society—to condemn what he termed an “oppressive and inhumane act.” He stressed that such actions, particularly by a neighbouring Muslim country, were deeply troubling and risked further destabilising the region.

Muttaqi also revealed that the attack took place despite ongoing mediation efforts by several countries, including China. He expressed disappointment that diplomatic channels had failed to prevent escalation, alleging that Pakistan’s military leadership showed little interest in pursuing peaceful resolutions.

He accused Pakistan of attempting to fuel instability in the region and disrupt emerging regional cooperation initiatives. According to him, Afghanistan has now lost trust in Pakistan’s willingness to engage constructively through diplomatic means.

Referring to previous incidents, Muttaqi cited alleged airspace violations on February 22, when he claimed Pakistani forces carried out strikes on seven civilian locations, including a madrasa, resulting in 15 deaths. He said these repeated actions indicate a pattern of aggression.

He further stated that Afghan security forces had responded with what he described as “proportionate and defensive measures,” targeting only military installations from which attacks were allegedly launched. He warned that such responses would continue unless Pakistan halted its “violations.”

Despite the escalating tensions, Muttaqi reiterated Afghanistan’s desire to maintain positive relations with all countries, particularly its regional neighbours. He emphasised that Kabul does not seek conflict but will take necessary steps to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Afghan government, he said, has communicated its position to key partner nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and China, seeking diplomatic support and understanding.

Muttaqi also touched upon the broader regional context, expressing concern over rising tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. He called for restraint and urged all parties to avoid actions that could widen the conflict further.

Concluding his address, Muttaqi appealed to diplomats present to convey Afghanistan’s position to their respective governments. He affirmed that the Afghan administration would take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty, dignity, and national interests, while continuing to advocate for peace and regional stability.