Afghan Officials Accuse Pakistan of Deadly Airstrike on Kabul Drug Rehab Hospital

In Brief

The incident has heightened tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with both sides disputing responsibility and the scale of civilian casualties.

Key Facts

• Afghan authorities claim that a Pakistani airstrike on a Kabul drug rehabilitation hospital killed at least 400 people.
• BBC reporters on the ground observed more than 30 bodies being removed from the hospital after the strike.
• The hospital targeted in the strike is a facility treating drug addicts in Kabul.
• Pakistan denies hitting the hospital and rejects Afghan claims of civilian casualties.
• Afghan health ministry and Taliban officials have provided varying casualty figures, ranging from over 200 to 400 deaths.

What Happened

A hospital in Kabul that treats drug addicts was struck in an airstrike, which Afghan officials attribute to Pakistan. Pakistan denies targeting the hospital or causing civilian deaths.

Why It Matters

The event has led to conflicting narratives between Afghanistan and Pakistan, raising concerns about civilian safety and the potential for escalating regional tensions. Reports vary on the number of casualties, with Afghan officials citing up to 400 deaths and on-the-ground observations confirming dozens. Pakistan denies targeting the hospital or causing civilian casualties.

What's Next

Rescue operations are ongoing at the hospital site. International observers and humanitarian groups may seek independent verification of casualty figures and the circumstances of the strike.