Karachi: Recurrent drone strikes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have resulted in the deaths of at least 17 individuals this year, including five children, raising serious concerns about the protection of civilian lives in the region.

The latest incident occurred on June 20, when a drone strike claimed the life of a child and injured five others in Dashka, Makeen Tehsil, South Waziristan district. This attack is part of a series of strikes that have intensified since March.

Isabelle Lassée, Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, criticized the Pakistani authorities for their inaction in safeguarding civilians. Lassée highlighted that these drone attacks, some of which have targeted homes and public gatherings, violate international laws protecting civilians.

Amnesty International has called for the Pakistani government to undertake independent investigations into these attacks and to ensure accountability for those responsible. The organization emphasized the need for fair trials and reparations for the victims and their families.

The provincial government acknowledged civilian casualties in a press note, yet the responsibility for these attacks remains contested. In a May incident, the authorities attributed the attack to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), denying any state involvement.

The ongoing use of drones in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa raises significant concerns about civilian safety and the accountability of those conducting these operations. As the strikes continue, the call for transparent investigations and justice for the victims grows louder.