Hundreds displaced as Afghanistan–Pakistan clashes deepen crisis

A new report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) warns that escalating fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan has triggered a growing humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands displaced and critical infrastructure damaged.

The situation report, covering the period from mid-March to early April, highlights the severe impact of ongoing shelling, airstrikes, and armed clashes along the disputed Durand Line.

Civilian casualties have reached several hundred, including children and at least one humanitarian worker.

Mass displacement and infrastructure damage

According to the report, more than 94,000 people have been displaced across eastern provinces, including Khost Province, Kunar Province, Nangarhar Province, Paktia Province, and Paktika Province. Assessments are ongoing in other affected areas such as Nuristan Province.

The violence has also taken a heavy toll on public infrastructure. At least 25 health facilities and 41 schools have been damaged, closed, or forced to suspend operations, disrupting access to healthcare, nutrition services, and education.

In one of the most significant incidents, a Pakistani airstrike on March 17 destroyed the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul. Additional damage has been reported to a market in Paktika, a fuel depot in Kandahar, and several religious sites in Kunar and Nuristan. At least 345 homes have been destroyed or severely damaged.

Isolated communities cut off from aid

The report noted that humanitarian access remains a major concern, particularly in remote districts of Nuristan. Nearly 100,000 people in Bargematal and Kamdesh districts have been cut off from assistance since late February due to ongoing hostilities and dangerous access routes.

The main road connecting these areas has become unusable amid reports of cross-Durand Line firing by Pakistan, leaving residents without access to markets or medical services. Severe shortages of food and essential supplies have been reported, while local health facilities are facing critical stock shortages.

Efforts to establish an alternative route through the Poprak Pass are underway, but officials say it is unlikely to become operational in the near term.

Tensions and explosive hazards

The Torkham crossing briefly reopened on March 26, allowing a small number of Afghans to return before closing again hours later. The same day, an unexploded ordnance incident injured three children, underscoring the growing danger posed by explosive remnants of war.

Mine action teams have faced increasing challenges due to insecurity and funding shortages. The number of active teams has dropped significantly over the past two years, limiting the ability to clear hazardous areas despite Afghanistan having one of the highest rates of explosive ordnance casualties globally.

Humanitarian response under strain

Despite the challenges, aid agencies continue to provide assistance. By the end of March, thousands of families had received emergency food supplies, shelter support, medical aid, and cash assistance. Education programs have also resumed in some areas, reaching several thousand students.

However, humanitarian officials warn that needs continue to outpace available resources. Funding gaps and access constraints are hindering efforts to deliver life-saving assistance to those most affected.

Ongoing risks

Although a temporary ceasefire was observed during the Eid period, hostilities have continued before and after the holiday, particularly in eastern and southeastern regions.

Humanitarian agencies caution that without sustained de-escalation and improved access, the crisis could worsen further, leaving vulnerable communities increasingly exposed to displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to basic services.