KABUL - The UN Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) condemns last night’s attack at the Karte Shakhi mosque and shrine in Kabul that killed at least 18 civilians and injured more than 50 others.

An attacker wearing an Afghan security forces uniform entered the Shia mosque as civilians congregated on the eve of the Muslim Shia day of remembrance, Ashura. The attacker opened fire on the congregation and used a hand grenade, killing and maiming worshipers. Among those killed were four women and two children, a boy and a girl.

This attack deliberately targeting a large group of civilians exercising their right to freely manifest their religion in worship, observance and practice is an atrocity.  

International humanitarian law prohibits deliberate attacks against civilians and civilian property, including places of worship, and places a specific obligation on parties to enable religious personnel to carry out their work. International humanitarian law further prohibits attacks directed against people and places of worship which constitute the cultural or spiritual heritage of peoples.

UNAMA expresses condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery for the injured.