The UN has welcomed a temporary ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan and urged dialogue to prevent further civilian casualties.
KABUL: The United Nations has welcomed the temporary ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan, following recent cross-border clashes that resulted in significant civilian casualties, particularly in Spin Boldak district of Kandahar Province.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over escalating violence and called for a permanent cessation of hostilities, urging both nations to prioritise dialogue and protect civilian lives. In a statement, his spokesperson reaffirmed the role of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), which continues to monitor the situation closely.
UNAMA confirmed that recent clashes led to at least 17 civilian deaths and 346 injuries in Spin Boldak alone. The mission also noted past skirmishes across Paktika, Paktia, Kunar, and Helmand provinces that left another 16 civilians dead. These figures mark one of the highest civilian tolls in the region this year.
The UN called on both countries to adhere to international humanitarian law, respecting principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution to minimise harm to civilians. UNAMA reiterated that protecting civilian populations must be the top priority in all military engagements.
The ceasefire, although temporary, is seen as a critical step in de-escalating tensions along the volatile border region. The UN has urged both nations to move towards a more permanent resolution and to engage in structured dialogue to avoid further violence.
