Kabul, March 17 (NationPress) A prominent human rights organization has expressed outrage over Pakistan's airstrike on a rehabilitation hospital in Kabul, which resulted in the deaths of over 400 individuals who were seeking medical assistance and recovery.

The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) has called for an independent investigation into this tragic event and accountability for those involved.

This condemnation follows reports from Afghan officials indicating that a Pakistani airstrike targeted the 2,000-bed Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital located in Kabul's Pul-e-Charkhi area, leading to the deaths of more than 400 people and injuring an additional 250.

The statement released on social media platform X proclaims, "The International Human Rights Foundation vehemently condemns the alleged bombardment by Pakistan of a rehabilitation facility in Kabul, Afghanistan, catering to drug addicts—an attack that has claimed the lives of many vulnerable patients seeking medical care and recovery."

"Institutions dedicated to treatment, rehabilitation, and humanitarian assistance must never be targeted during any conflict or security operation. Patients in these facilities represent some of the most vulnerable members of society—individuals seeking help, dignity, and a chance to rebuild their lives. We are profoundly disturbed by reports indicating that numerous victims were unarmed civilians undergoing treatment," the statement continued.

The IHRF has urged for immediate action to safeguard medical and rehabilitation facilities and underscored that attacks on such institutions breach the "fundamental principles of international humanitarian law and human rights standards."

The organization’s statement further emphasizes, "The International Human Rights Foundation advocates for: an independent international inquiry into this incident, accountability for those accountable, and immediate measures to ensure the protection of medical and rehabilitation facilities. Attacking medical establishments contravenes the most fundamental tenets of international humanitarian law and human rights standards. The global community must not stay silent as places of healing transform into scenes of tragedy."

On the same day, Afghanistan's Ministry of Interior spokesperson, Abdul Matin Qane, asserted that the nation would respond decisively to the deadly airstrikes conducted by Pakistan in Kabul.

Qane noted that recovery operations were underway, with emergency teams searching for bodies amidst the rubble, as reported by Afghanistan-based Ariana News.

He characterized Pakistan's latest strike as a significant escalation and warned of a forthcoming response.

He stated, "Such attacks cannot remain unanswered," reiterating that Afghan authorities view the incident as a violation of Afghanistan's sovereignty, according to Ariana News.

This incident signifies a notable increase in tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan in recent weeks, marked by airstrikes, artillery exchanges, and mutual accusations.