A Pakistani air strike on a drug rehabilitation centre in Kabul has killed at least 408 people and injured 265, Afghan officials reported. The attack, which occurred late Monday evening, is the deadliest single incident in a three-week conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Horrific Scenes at the Omid Hospital
Witnesses described scenes of devastation, with rescuers continuing to search through rubble on Tuesday. Ambulance driver Haji Fahim arrived at the scene to find “everything was burning, people were burning,” and was later called back to the site as bodies continued to be discovered. Yousaf Rahim, a patient at the centre, recounted a horrific scene of screaming and fire as the wards were struck.
Mohammad Mian, who works in the hospital’s radiology department, stated that many patients lived in containers on the campus and few survived the strike. The Norwegian Refugee Council reported seeing “hundreds of civilians dead and injured” after visiting the facility.
Escalating Conflict and Conflicting Claims
The conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan escalated in February when Pakistan launched airstrikes on militant targets in Afghanistan. Pakistan has rejected accusations of deliberately targeting the hospital, claiming it struck “technical support infrastructure and ammunition storage facilities.” Pakistani information minister Attaullah Tarar stated the strikes targeted infrastructure used to support “terror proxies.”
The UN has called for an independent investigation into the killings, stating that victims and their families are entitled to reparations. India, which has recently forged closer ties with the Taliban government, condemned the strike. China has urged both governments to exercise restraint.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan start to worsen?
The conflict began to worsen in late February when Pakistan launched airstrikes on militant targets in Afghanistan.
What is Pakistan’s stated reason for the airstrikes?
Pakistan claims it bombed “technical support infrastructure and ammunition storage facilities” used to support militant groups.
What was the Omid hospital used for?
The Omid hospital, also known as Omid Camp, was a drug rehabilitation centre that treated hundreds of people and provided vocational training.
As the conflict continues, what steps might be taken to de-escalate tensions and prevent further civilian casualties?
