EU Condemns Attack on Kabul Addicts' Treatment Center as Violation of International Humanitarian Law

KABUL (Afghan Verified) -- The European Union condemned an attack by Pakistani forces on an addicts' treatment center in Kabul as a clear violation of international humanitarian law and another example of deadly conflict escalation.

In a joint statement by European Commission President Kaja Kallas and EU Special Representative for Afghanistan Hujeh Lhabib, the EU emphasized that civilian centers, particularly medical facilities, must not be targeted and enjoy immunity under international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions. Lhabib wrote on X that the strike on the Kabul center violated these principles.

The EU urged all parties to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, implement urgent measures to protect civilians, declare an immediate ceasefire and resume talks between Taliban officials and Pakistan.

Pakistani fighter jets carried out airstrikes and artillery attacks overnight on sites in Kabul, Nangarhar and Kunar provinces. In Kabul, explosions struck at least five locations, including the addicts' treatment center on Polcharkhi Road, the fifth security district, a Taliban Ministry of Defense ammunition depot and a military airfield.

The Taliban reported more than 400 killed and over 250 wounded at the treatment center, with casualty figures rising. The Emergency Hospital said it received 27 wounded individuals from the incident. The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) confirmed dozens killed and wounded in the attack.