Afghanistan cricket star Rashid Khan has strongly condemned the recent airstrike in Kabul, which Afghan authorities claim killed at least 400 people and injured over 250, calling the incident a “war crime” and urging international intervention.
The alleged strike, which reportedly hit a drug rehabilitation hospital, has intensified tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, though Islamabad has denied targeting civilian infrastructure.
Rashid Khan Calls for Accountability
Reacting to the incident, Rashid Khan expressed deep concern over the loss of civilian lives, stating that targeting non-military infrastructure such as homes, schools, or hospitals—whether intentional or accidental—constitutes a violation of international law.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he said the attack reflected a “sheer disregard for human lives,” particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. He also warned that such actions could deepen divisions and fuel long-term instability in the region.
Khan urged the United Nations and global human rights organisations to conduct a thorough investigation and hold those responsible accountable.
Mohammad Nabi Also Reacts
Veteran Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi also voiced his anguish over the incident, describing it as a devastating loss of life.
He highlighted the human cost of the strike, stating that individuals seeking treatment at the hospital were among those killed, while families waited in distress for news of their loved ones.
Pakistan Denies Civilian Targeting
The government of Pakistan has rejected the allegations, maintaining that its military operations were aimed at militant infrastructure and not civilian facilities. Officials described the Taliban’s claims as misleading and reiterated that precision strikes were conducted to avoid collateral damage.
Rising Tensions Between Afghanistan and Pakistan
The incident comes amid escalating hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with both sides accusing each other of cross-border aggression. Recent clashes along the border have marked one of the most intense phases of conflict between the two countries in recent years.
The current tensions reportedly began in February following a series of retaliatory strikes, with both nations claiming to defend their sovereignty and security interests.
Global Concern Grows
The reported civilian casualties have drawn international concern, with growing calls for restraint and adherence to international humanitarian law.
As the situation continues to evolve, the focus remains on verifying the facts, ensuring accountability, and preventing further escalation in an already volatile region.
