UNAMA welcomes Afghanistan-Pakistan ceasefire and calls for protection of civilians

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has welcomed the ceasefire between Afghan security forces and Pakistani military forces and called for immediate protection of civilians.

According to a UNAMA statement, clashes have intensified since October 10, resulting in the killing and wounding of a number of civilians.

The Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province suffered the most casualties, with at least 17 civilians killed and 346 wounded in heavy fighting on Wednesday.

UNAMA added that clashes have previously resulted in at least one martyr and 15 wounded in Paktika, Paktia, Kunar and Helmand provinces.

The office called on all parties to permanently end the violence and prevent further civilian casualties.