By René Wadlow

The Association of World Citizens (AWC) calls upon the military authorities of Pakistan and Afghanistan to uphold international humanitarian law, in particular the protection of medical and health installations.

More than 400 people were killed and at least 265 others were injured in a Pakistani airstrike on a drug rehabilitation center, Camp Phoenix, in Kabul, Afghanistan on March 15, 2026. Camp Phoenix, known locally as Omid Camp – Camp of Hope – has been for over a decade a drug treatment center. Afghanistan has a good number of people who have become dependent on the use of drugs. Thus, the drug treatment center meets a real need.

Pakistan declared war on Afghanistan in late February 2026 for harboring Pakistani Taliban, a militant group which has repeatedly attacked Pakistani security forces. Over the past three weeks, Pakistani forces have hit Afghan military installations, residential areas, and civilian infrastructures, including more than 20 health care facilities. Afghan troops have responded with drone strikes and border raids. For the moment, a negotiated end to the armed conflict seems unlikely. Violence may expand.

Thus, there is a need to uphold international humanitarian law, of which the protection of medical centers and medical workers is a core element. The AWC welcomes others who also facilitate international humanitarian law in these critical times.

Prof. René Wadlow is President of the Association of World Citizens.

Of related interest:

February 10, 2025: Strengthening Respect for International Humanitarian Law

October 11, 2024: World Citizen Appeal to Uphold International Humanitarian Law

March 2, 2022: Upholding International Humanitarian Law in Times of Armed Conflict: A World Citizen Appeal