Attack on UN compound in Herat widely condemned

KABUL (Pajhwok): The attack on a United Nations compound in western Herat province was widely condemned on Saturday.

The United States strongly condemned the attack that resulted in the death of an Afghan guard, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said in a statement.

“The United Nations in Afghanistan is a civilian entity focused on supporting peace efforts, promoting the rights of all Afghans and providing humanitarian and development assistance. Attacks against civilian UN personnel and facilities are prohibited under international law,” the statement said.

“We reiterate our call for an immediate reduction in violence in Afghanistan, and for all regional actors to encourage the parties to return to negotiations without delay so that the Afghan people can achieve a durable and just political settlement that brings the peace and security they deserve.”

US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said attacks against civilians and protected persons and objects were prohibited under international law, and the perpetrators of this deplorable action must be held accountable.

“The civilians who carry out the vital work of the United Nations are mandated by the international community to support the people and institutions of Afghanistan and they must be able to carry out this mission safely and securely”.

The ambassador said they continue to call for an immediate end to the ongoing violence in Afghanistan, which exacerbates the humanitarian situation there and has led to a growing number of civilian casualties and internal displacements.

“Together with the international community, we urge all parties to immediately reduce violence and to reach a negotiated political settlement and a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire to bring Afghans the peace they seek.”

A statement attributable to the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General strongly condemned the attack. He expressed his condolences to the bereaved family and wishes those injured a speedy recovery.

Meanwhile, EU condemned the attack on the UN Compound in Herat in the strongest possible terms and expressed deep condolences for the loss of life. “The Taliban have to account for the crime which will be considered an attack against all of us. It is contrary to all assurances given” the EU said in a statement.

Similarly, NATO strongly condemned the violence in Herat and the attack targeting colleagues at UNAMA.

Also, Germany, France, China, Pakistan, Australia and other  countries condemned the attack.

pr/ma