Norwegian Refugee Council Reports Over 115,000 Displaced in Taliban-Pakistan Clashes

The Norwegian Refugee Council reports that more than 115,000 people have been displaced amid clashes between the Taliban and Pakistan since February 26, with civilians facing deteriorating humanitarian conditions in eastern provinces including Kunar and Nangarhar.

The organization stated that at least 76 civilians have been killed and 213 wounded since the attacks began. Jacopo Caridi, head of the Norwegian Refugee Council in Afghanistan, said: "Families who were already on the brink of survival have now been forced to flee their homes."

Thousands have sought refuge in temporary camps, host homes or rented accommodations in poor conditions at high costs, according to the council. Caridi added: "They have lost access to drinking water, health services, and education."

The United Nations states that at least 10 Afghan provinces have been affected by airstrikes, shelling and drone attacks, with the Taliban conducting operations across the border in response. The clashes have intensified in recent weeks, including a March 16 attack on a drug treatment center in Kabul, which the Taliban say left hundreds dead, though exact casualty figures remain disputed.

The Norwegian Refugee Council said at least 800 homes have been damaged or destroyed, with attacks expanding to urban areas. Caridi emphasized: "It is essential that the warring parties respect international humanitarian law. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be targeted."

Bakhitar, a 65-year-old resident who fled near the Torkham border with his six children, described intense nighttime shelling that forced his family to leave everything behind. They are now living in an empty poultry farm provided by a farmer.

The council warned that Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis has worsened due to reduced international aid, with the country receiving the lowest funding among global humanitarian programs. Caridi said: "In a chaotic world, Afghanistan must not be forgotten," noting rising food prices and border closures have compounded hardships for displaced families.