Human Rights Watch has said that the airstrike carried out by Pakistan on March 16, 2026, on the “Omid” drug treatment center in eastern Kabul may be unlawful and could constitute a war crime.
According to the organization’s report, the attack killed dozens of people and injured over 250, most of whom were patients. The organization noted that hundreds of patients were reportedly gathered in a dining hall at the time to break their Ramadan fast.
Staff at the center said that three key buildings were targeted: the dining hall, a patient accommodation building, and a guard room.
The report added that satellite imagery confirms widespread destruction across the center.
Human Rights Watch emphasized that there is no evidence so far that the facility was being used for military purposes. Under international law, medical facilities enjoy special protection, and targeting them constitutes a serious violation.
The organization called on Pakistan to conduct an impartial investigation into the incident and hold accountable those responsible for any potential violations.
