Amnesty International calls for probe into civilian casualties from Pakistan airstrikes in Nangarhar

Amnesty International has expressed deep concern over reports that Pakistan’s airstrikes in Nangarhar province of Afghanistan on 21 and 22 February caused civilian deaths and injuries.

The human rights group called for a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation into the incidents.

“These reports of harm to civilians are deeply troubling and must be urgently examined. Civilian protection is a fundamental obligation under international law,” said an Amnesty International spokesperson.

This incident follows a disturbing pattern of civilian casualties along the disputed Durand Line between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Between October and December 2025, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reported that 70 civilians were killed and 478 others injured during clashes between Afghan forces and the Pakistan military.

Human rights advocates and regional observers have voiced alarm over the escalation. Local officials in Nangarhar condemned the strikes, emphasizing that innocent families, including women and children, bore the brunt of the violence.

Amnesty International reiterated its calls on all parties involved in hostilities to take every necessary step to protect civilians. “Those engaged in military operations must ensure that their actions do not harm civilians and that any use of force complies fully with international humanitarian law,” the spokesperson added.

The group also urged the international community to pressure parties to exercise restraint and explore diplomatic avenues to prevent further escalation along the Durand Line.