UN condemns attack that kills dozens near shrine in Kabul
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Publication Date | 21 March 2018 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, UN condemns attack that kills dozens near shrine in Kabul, 21 March 2018, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5b83c55da.html [accessed 17 September 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
21 March 2018
The United Nations strongly condemned the deadly attack earlier Wednesday in the Afghan capital, Kabul, near a major religious shrine where people had gathered to celebrate Nowruz – the traditional New Year and the arrival of spring.
In a statement attributable to his spokesperson, Secretary-General António Guterres offered his condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
"Nowruz is a time of renewal and celebration, and should be a time for promoting the values of peace and solidarity," he said, reiterating that those organized the attack "must be brought to justice."
The UN chief also expressed his solidary with the Government and the people of Afghanistan in the aftermath of the violence.
According to the UN Assistance Mission in the country, UNAMA, initial reports indicate that at least 25 civilians were killed and many others injured. There are fears the numbers could rise. Media reports suggest a suicide blew himself up near teh shrine.
In a separate statement, Tadamichi Yamamoto, the head of the UN Mission, echoed the Secretary-General's condemnation.
"I reiterate that under no circumstances are such attacks justifiable, and I once again call on all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, at all times."