Human Rights Watch Deems Pakistan Airstrike on Kabul Drug Treatment Center Illegal and Likely War Crime
Human Rights Watch has declared Pakistan's March 16, 2026, airstrike on the Umid drug treatment center in Kabul illegal under international humanitarian law and likely a war crime.
The facility, located at the former Camp Phoenix in eastern Kabul and operational since 2016, was struck in buildings including the dining hall, patient residential area and guard room. Many patients were gathered in the dining hall for iftar at the time of the attack, according to HRW's investigation, which included satellite imagery, witness statements and interviews with employees. The rights group found no evidence of military use at the civilian site and documented extensive destruction.
HRW reported at least 143 people killed and more than 250 wounded, mostly patients. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan stated over 400 were martyred and nearly 300 wounded, according to Ariana News. The center had hosted prisoners from Pul-e-Charkhi prison and those arrested on anti-drug charges, with some reported missing after the strike.
Pakistan described the strikes as precise operations against support infrastructure and ammunition depots, a claim rejected by HRW. Patricia Gossman, HRW's associate Asia director, called for an immediate impartial investigation by Pakistan.
The report comes amid rising tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
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Where reports agree
- Pakistan airstrike on Umid/Omid drug treatment center in Kabul on March 16, 2026
- HRW calls attack illegal and potential war crime based on investigation including satellite imagery and witness statements
- HRW casualty figures: at least 143 killed, over 250 wounded, mostly patients
- Center at former Camp Phoenix, operating since 2016
- Targeted dining hall (patients at iftar), patient housing, guard room
- HRW: no evidence of military use; calls for Pakistani investigation
Where reports differ
- Casualty figures: HRW 143+ killed vs. Islamic Emirate >400 killed
- Pakistan's claim of targeting infrastructure/ammo depots (disputed by HRW; only in Amu TV)
- Additional details like UN on teen area destruction, prisoners/missing persons (only Amu TV)
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