The UN mission in Afghanistan says at least 10 civilians were killed and six others injured in airstrikes overnight in the eastern provinces of Khost and Kunar.
In a statement released Tuesday, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said the majority of those killed were children and described the civilian toll as “deeply alarming.” The agency called on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and to conduct any military operations in ways that prevent civilian harm.
UNAMA did not assign responsibility for the strikes. But the Taliban blamed Pakistan for the bombings.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said at least 10 people were killed when a residential home was struck in the Gurbuz district of Khost, including a woman and nine children.
He also claimed additional attacks in Kunar and the neighboring province of Paktika wounded four civilians and damaged homes — allegations Pakistani authorities have not publicly addressed.
UNAMA warned that continued airstrikes without regard for civilian safety could further worsen the humanitarian situation along the border regions and urged all sides to prioritize protection of noncombatants.
