Kabul: At least 10 civilians, most of them children, were killed and nine others injured in airstrikes carried out in Afghanistan’s Kunar and Helmand provinces, according to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).
The strikes have intensified tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with Kabul accusing Islamabad of targeting civilian areas. Pakistan, however, has said its strikes targeted militant hideouts and claimed that 22 militants were killed. The competing casualty claims have not been independently verified.
UN Confirms Civilian Casualties
UNAMA said the strikes took place earlier on Thursday in Kunar and Helmand provinces. The UN mission confirmed at least 10 civilian deaths, with most of those killed being children, and nine injuries.
The UN also called for de-escalation, dialogue, respect for international law and measures to prevent further civilian harm. It said more than 1,100 civilian deaths and injuries from cross-border armed violence have been documented in Afghanistan so far in 2026.
Afghanistan Condemns Strikes
Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the strikes hit residential areas and destroyed three houses in Kunar and Helmand. Afghan authorities initially reported nine deaths, including women and children, and 11 injuries. Kabul condemned the attacks as an act of aggression.
Pakistan Says Militants Were Targeted
Pakistan has presented a different account, saying the strikes were carried out against militant camps and hideouts. Islamabad said the operation was based on intelligence and claimed that 22 militants were killed, along with the destruction of weapons and ammunition.
The latest strikes come amid renewed tensions and cross-border hostilities between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Islamabad has repeatedly accused Kabul of allowing armed groups, including the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to operate from Afghan territory. The Afghan government denies the allegations.