Tragic Pakistani Airstrike Targets Kabul Rehabilitation Center, Over 400 Dead
Synopsis
In a tragic event, a Pakistani airstrike on a Kabul rehabilitation center has resulted in over 400 fatalities and significant injuries. This incident highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and has drawn international condemnation.
Key Takeaways
Over 400 fatalities reported from the airstrike.
At least 250 individuals injured .
Attack targeted the Umid addiction treatment hospital .
International condemnation from various figures.
Rescue operations are ongoing .
Kabul, March 17 (NationPress) A devastating airstrike by Pakistan targeted a prominent addiction rehabilitation facility in Kabul, resulting in the death of over 400 individuals and injuring at least 250 others, according to reports from Taliban officials and local media. This incident may mark one of the most lethal events in the Afghan capital's recent history.
The Taliban-led government officials indicated that the strike occurred around 9 p.m. at the Umid addiction treatment hospital, which has a capacity of 2,000 beds.
Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat, Deputy spokesman for the Taliban, stated that the bombing led to significant damage throughout the hospital.
Fitrat expressed his concerns on X, noting, "The military regime of Pakistan bombed the 2,000-bed addiction treatment facility named Umid, obliterating much of the structure and raising concerns about an even greater number of casualties than initially estimated." He reported that fatalities had climbed to around 400 and that 250 individuals were wounded.
Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Taliban government, also condemned the airstrike in a post on X, emphasizing that the casualties were predominantly innocent civilians.
“The victims, primarily civilians and those battling addiction, were tragically killed during the bombing at the hospital by (Pakistani military forces). We indeed belong to God, and to Him we shall return,” he stated.
In response, officials from Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Health mobilized emergency teams to the site as rescuers searched through the wreckage of the facility. Sharaf Zaman, a ministry spokesman, reported that initially, at least 170 injured patients were quickly moved to nearby hospitals.
“The rescue operations are ongoing, and we fear the death toll may increase,” Zaman informed reporters, noting that several parts of the hospital had been severely damaged. Local media reported that rescue teams were battling fires and trying to recover bodies from the debris.
Khaama Press characterized the airstrike as one of the deadliest attacks in Kabul in recent times. The report indicated that international figures have swiftly responded to this tragedy.
Richard Bennett, the UN Human Rights Council’s Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan, expressed alarm regarding the reported civilian casualties and called for restraint between Kabul and Islamabad. Former Afghan peace negotiator Abdullah Abdullah also denounced the attack, labeling it a breach of international law and advocating for resolution through dialogue.
Similarly, Zalmay Khalilzad, the former US special representative for Afghan reconciliation, expressed his concerns about the civilian impact and called for humanitarian aid for the affected.
Point of View
It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire.
NationPress
9 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the airstrike on the Kabul hospital?
The airstrike was conducted by the Pakistani military, targeting the Umid addiction treatment hospital in Kabul.
How many casualties resulted from the airstrike?
Reports indicate that over 400 individuals have died, with at least 250 others injured.
What has been the international response to the airstrike?
International figures, including UN representatives, have condemned the attack and called for restraint between Kabul and Islamabad.
What is the current status of rescue operations?
Rescue operations are ongoing, with emergency teams working to recover bodies and assist the injured.
What are the implications of this incident for Afghanistan?
This event highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and the need for international attention and dialogue.
