The escalating conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan is compounding humanitarian challenges, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning that attacks on health facilities could disrupt essential services and overwhelm fragile health systems.
WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus highlighted that at least six health facilities in Afghanistan have reportedly been affected since late February as cross-border clashes intensified. He specifically cited an overnight strike on the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Facility in Kabul, which reportedly killed more than 400 patients and injured at least 250 others who were receiving treatment for substance use disorders.
“The intensifying conflict is placing additional strain on health systems and increasing risks to the health and well-being of vulnerable populations”, Ghebreyesus said, urging both sides to de-escalate tensions and prioritize peace. The WHO is currently working to verify all reported incidents.
The hostilities escalated in late February after Afghan forces allegedly attacked Pakistani military positions along the border, prompting retaliatory airstrikes on several Afghan cities, including Kabul.
Both countries have since exchanged artillery and airstrikes, with each accusing the other of causing civilian casualties.
The conflict is rooted in long-standing tensions, particularly Pakistan’s claims that militant groups, including the Pakistani Taliban, operate from Afghan territory, claims Kabul has consistently denied.
Ghebreyesus warned that the attacks on hospitals and clinics threaten to disrupt essential medical services, putting patients, healthcare workers, and vulnerable populations at heightened risk.
The humanitarian impact is expected to strain Afghanistan’s already limited health resources and complicate ongoing emergency and relief efforts.
The WHO’s warning also comes amid other global conflicts, including the US–Israel–Iran war, which has placed additional pressure on health systems in the Middle East, underscoring the urgent need for de-escalation and the protection of civilians.
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