Kabul: July 26, 2021- (TDI): In a new report released today, the United Nations warns that Afghanistan will have the highest number of documented civilian casualties in a single year unless violence is significantly de-escalated. Civilian deaths in Afghanistan hit record highs in the first half of 2021. The killings and injuries have grown since May as the U.S forces began their withdrawal.
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reports 5,183 civilian casualties. In comparison to the same period in 2020, there has been a 47 percent increase. It is extremely concerned that the repercussions for Afghan civilians might be disastrous if extensive military action is continued. UNAMA is also worried about an increase in reports of killings, ill-treatment, persecution, and discrimination in communities affected by the present conflict.
The UN reminds the stakeholders of their international obligations to protect civilians. It reiterated their declared commitment to do so, which was most recently articulated in a joint statement published on July 18, 2021, in Doha by representatives of the Afghan government and the Taliban.
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