Brussels, 5 August 2021 (TDI): The EU High Representative Josep Borrell and Commissioner Janez Lenarčič, in a joint statement by the EU External Action Service (EEAS) have condemned the surging violence in Afghanistan by the Taliban. The statement follows the recent attack in Herat on UNAMA office, fighting in Lashkar Gah, and targeted attack on Defence Minister Bismillah Mohammadi’s residence in Kabul. The overall casualties and wounded victims amounted to 60.
According to the statement, “the EU calls for an urgent, comprehensive and permanent ceasefire to give peace a chance,” as Europe fears internal and external displacements of Afghans as well as regional security challenges in South Asia. The Taliban offensives go against the Doha peace negotiations, as well as the principles of International Humanitarian Law. “Those Taliban fighters or commanders responsible must be held accountable,” declares the EU.
