13 December 2008 - I strongly condemn the attack where a young boy was allegedly used as a suicide bomber against British forces in Sangin, Helmand.

Dari & Pashto

My thoughts are with the families and friends of those killed and wounded. The killing of three marines by a 13-year old boy again demonstrates the Taliban's total disrespect for human rights.

Such unscrupulous use of children cannot be justified under any circumstances. Forcing or coercing children directly into such action is wholly unacceptable by anyone's standards.

The Taliban and all others who use children in warfare must cease doing so. The rights of children in Afghanistan must be fully protected.