The United Nations condemned airstrikes in Afghanistan on December 26, 2024, describing them as a violation of international law and urging an immediate investigation.
The UN statement emphasized that military forces must take precautions to prevent civilian harm, including distinguishing between civilians and combatants.
UNICEF reported that at least 20 children were among the casualties. Sanjay Wijesekera, UNICEF's South Asia Director, stated, "Children are not and must never be a target."
Afghan authorities indicated that the airstrikes resulted in at least 46 civilian deaths, many of whom were refugees from Pakistan's Waziristan region.
In reaction, Afghanistan summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Kabul to express a formal protest, presenting a "serious protest note." Afghan officials warned that the protection of Afghanistan's territory is a "red line" and cautioned against further "irresponsible actions," according to the Afghan foreign ministry.
Pakistan asserted that the airstrikes targeted suspected hideouts of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group involved in various attacks in Pakistan. This incident has heightened tensions between the two nations, particularly regarding border security and counterterrorism measures.