An airstrike on a hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan, has resulted in the reported death of at least 400 individuals. The Afghan government has accused Pakistan of targeting the hospital, escalating a conflict that began recently, leading to cross-border clashes and air strikes in Afghanistan.
Despite international calls for a ceasefire, the situation remains unresolved. Pakistan has denied hitting any civilian sites in its strikes in eastern Afghanistan, dismissing Afghanistan’s accusations. The devastating air strike on the hospital, which occurred around 9pm local time, caused significant damage to the 2,000-bed facility, resulting in a death toll of 400 people and around 250 others injured.
Following the strike, local TV footage showed security forces rescuing casualties while firefighters battled flames amidst the wreckage. Efforts are underway to control the fire and retrieve the bodies. This incident followed a deadly exchange of fire along the border between the two nations, with casualties reported on both sides.
Amidst the escalating tensions, Pakistan and Afghanistan have traded accusations, with each side blaming the other for the violence. The UN Security Council has urged the Taliban rulers in Afghanistan to combat terrorism effectively. The situation has been described as an “open war” by Pakistan, with ongoing clashes and airstrikes in the region.
The recent hostilities have disrupted a previous ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar, leading to renewed violence and casualties. Both countries have reported casualties among their respective forces, further fueling the conflict. The situation remains tense, with no immediate resolution in sight.