Afghans protest in London, Oslo over Pakistan strikes

March 30, 2026

London/Oslo: Afghan communities in Europe staged protests in London and Oslo against Pakistan’s recent military strikes in Afghanistan, expressing anger over civilian casualties and escalating cross-border violence.

Diaspora Protests in Europe

Hundreds of Afghans living in the United Kingdom and Norway gathered in central London and Oslo to demonstrate against Pakistan’s airstrikes and shelling in Afghanistan. Protesters carried placards, chanted slogans, and demanded international intervention to stop the attacks.

The demonstrations were organised by members of the Afghan diaspora, who called attention to the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict.

Anger Over Civilian Casualties

Protesters alleged that Pakistan’s military operations have led to significant civilian casualties, including women and children. They urged global institutions, including the United Nations, to investigate the strikes and hold those responsible accountable.

The anger stems from recent reports of airstrikes and cross-border shelling in Afghan cities and border regions, which have reportedly caused deaths and injuries among civilians.

Participants in the protests also expressed grief over victims of a major airstrike in Kabul earlier this month, which Afghan authorities claim resulted in hundreds of deaths.

Background: Rising Afghanistan-Pakistan Tensions

The protests come amid escalating hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan in 2026, marked by repeated military strikes and retaliatory attacks.

Pakistan has said its operations target militant groups operating from Afghan territory, particularly the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). However, Afghan authorities have denied these allegations and accused Pakistan of violating its sovereignty.

The conflict has intensified since February, with both sides engaging in cross-border clashes and airstrikes, making it one of the most serious escalations in recent years.

Calls for International Action

During the protests, demonstrators appealed to the international community to step in and prevent further escalation. Many urged world leaders to push for an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic dialogue between the two countries.

Human rights groups have also raised concerns over the safety of civilians caught in the conflict, warning of a growing humanitarian crisis if violence continues.

Humanitarian Concerns Grow

The ongoing conflict has displaced thousands of people and disrupted daily life in affected regions. Reports indicate that homes, hospitals, and civilian infrastructure have been damaged in the fighting, further aggravating the situation.

Protesters in Europe emphasised that ordinary Afghans are bearing the brunt of the conflict and called for urgent humanitarian assistance.

Global Attention on Regional Conflict

The demonstrations in London and Oslo highlight how the conflict has resonated beyond South Asia, drawing attention from Afghan communities worldwide.

Analysts believe that such protests could increase international pressure on both governments to de-escalate tensions and seek peaceful solutions.

The protests by Afghans in Europe underscore the deep concern and anger over ongoing violence in Afghanistan. As tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan continue, calls for accountability, restraint, and dialogue are growing louder on the global stage.