KABUL - Three attacks by Anti-Government Elements in Kabul on 7 August caused at least 355 civilian casualties – 42 deaths and 313 injured – the highest number of civilians killed and injured in one day since the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) began systematically recording civilian casualties in 2009. The attacks also caused extensive damage to civilian homes and property.

“Those responsible for suicide and complex attacks in civilian-populated areas can no longer shrug off the disproportionate harm to the civilian population they cause,” said Nicholas Haysom, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan. “The Afghan people are resilient, but the suffering caused by these tactics in terms of civilian deaths, injuries, and the loss of family members, is extreme, irreversible and unjustifiable in any terms.”

Between 1 January and 7 August 2015, UNAMA documented 1,523 civilian casualties (282 deaths and 1,241 injured) from complex and suicide attacks launched by Anti-Government Elements, including the Taliban, almost doubling the death and injuries compared to the same period in 2014.

UNAMA repeats its call for Anti-Government Elements, including the Taliban, to cease the use of complex and suicide attacks in civilian-populated areas. The Mission also extends its condolences to the families of those killed and injured, and reiterates UNAMA’s unwavering support to the people of Afghanistan