Geneva: United Nations experts have called for a renewed ceasefire and the establishment of a peace agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan, following a resurgence of violence that began in late February. The fighting escalated after the collapse of a previous ceasefire agreement reached in October 2025.

According to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, since the conflict reignited on February 26, 2026, at least 289 civilians have been affected in Afghanistan, with 76 fatalities and 213 injuries reported. The violence has led to the displacement of over 115,000 people and caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities, homes, and markets. Additionally, educational institutions and border crossings have been closed, and trade activities have been suspended.

The situation intensified on March 16 when a Pakistani airstrike targeted a drug rehabilitation facility, resulting in numerous casualties. UN experts condemned the attack and extended condolences to the victims’ families. They also highlighted civilian casualties from Taliban attacks in Pakistan, which have contributed to further displacement and school closures.

The experts emphasized the need for both parties to adhere to international human rights and humanitarian laws, calling for thorough investigations into alleged violations and accountability for those responsible. Tensions have been rising since Pakistan conducted airstrikes on Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan camps on February 21-22, prompting retaliatory actions by Afghanistan’s de facto authorities.

Pakistan has justified its military actions as a response to alleged support from the Afghan authorities for the TTP, a group under Security Council counter-terrorism sanctions. However, the Afghan authorities have denied these allegations. In recent years, attacks by the TTP in Pakistan have resulted in significant casualties and displacement.

UN experts have urged all involved parties, including the Taliban, to prevent terrorist activities that threaten lives across borders. They reiterated that international law prohibits tolerating or supporting terrorism, and Pakistan’s recent attacks on Afghanistan contravene the United Nations Charter’s prohibition on the use of force.

The experts have been in communication with both the Government of Pakistan and Afghanistan’s de facto authorities, stressing the necessity for peaceful dispute resolution to maintain international security.