The Secretary-General strongly condemns the airstrike in Kabul, Afghanistan, on 16 March, which reportedly resulted in the death and injury of civilians at a hospital.
The Secretary-General recalls that under international humanitarian law, patients, medical personnel and medical facilities, including hospitals, must be respected and protected at all times. He calls for an independent and impartial investigation into the incident.
The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to the families of those killed and wishes a swift recovery to those injured. He reiterates his call for de-escalation and the immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all parties to comply with their obligations under international law, including the protection of civilians.
The Secretary-General urges the parties to resolve their differences through peaceful means and dialogue, in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter.
[Statement delivered by the SG Spokesperson at the 18 March noon briefing ]
