aKabul: At least 22 civilians were killed and 47 others injured following a series of airstrikes conducted by Pakistani security forces in Afghanistan's Paktya, Paktika, and Kunar provinces. According to UNAMA, the strikes, which occurred late Sunday evening, have drawn international attention and underscore the need for adherence to humanitarian law to protect civilians. According to United Nations, the airstrikes took place in the Chamkani district of Paktya province, Gyan district of Paktika province, and Marawara district of Kunar province. The Kabul-based UN mission reported that women and children were among the victims and emphasized that the casualty figures might rise as hospitals continue to treat the injured. The UN reiterated its call for respect for international humanitarian law principles of precaution, distinction, and proportionality to safeguard civilians. UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday urged for an immediate halt to hostilities and emphasized the protection of civilians. He reiterated the call for combatants to engage in diplomacy to resolve their differences. The UN spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, highlighted the organization's ongoing efforts to ensure that civilians and civilian infrastructure are protected at all times. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, investigators from the Commission of Inquiry on North Kivu and South Kivu highlighted severe human rights violations, including sexual violence and unlawful killings. The commission's update to the Human Rights Council in Geneva emphasized the need for sustained attention and international engagement to address the crisis. Lead investigator Arnauld Akodjenou underscored the necessity of allowing humanitarian workers safe passage to assist communities affected by the Ebola outbreak and conflict. In the Occupied Palestinian Territory, a teenage girl was reportedly killed in Gaza despite a ceasefire between Hamas and the Israeli military. UNICEF reported that children in Gaza remain trapped in a persistent cycle of hardship, including displacement and hunger. The UN aid coordination office, OCHA, cited that more than 20 families were displaced in eastern Deir al Balah governorate due to territorial expansions by Israel, pushing the so-called Yellow Line further into Gaza. Humanitarian efforts in Gaza face significant challenges, with coordination requirements with Israeli authorities impeding service provision. Forces affiliated with Gaza's de facto authorities have also hindered aid efforts by inspecting convoys and entering UN facilities illegally. UNICEF stressed the importance of protecting lifesaving services from such interference, as Palestinians continue to live in restricted conditions.
