Afghan Cricketers Demand Justice After Civilian Casualties in Kabul Airstrikes

Afghan cricketers have voiced their outrage over civilian casualties in Kabul following airstrikes by Pakistan. Rashid Khan and other players have called for justice, condemning the attacks as war crimes. Reports indicate a high death toll, with Taliban officials confirming significant casualties. The situation highlights the escalating tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban administration. This article delves into the cricketers' heartfelt responses and the implications of these tragic events.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 09:20 IST

Outrage Over Civilian Casualties in Kabul

A number of cricketers from Afghanistan have voiced their concerns regarding the civilian deaths reported in Kabul due to recent airstrikes conducted by Pakistan. They expressed their sorrow and called for accountability. Reports indicate that Pakistan executed significant bombardments targeting Kabul, with Taliban officials and local residents noting multiple explosions throughout the city.

Cricketers Condemn 'War Crime' in Kabul

Rashid Khan expressed his dismay on social media, stating he was "deeply saddened by the latest reports of civilian casualties in Kabul." He emphasized that attacking civilian residences, schools, or hospitals, whether intentional or accidental, constitutes a war crime. He remarked, "The blatant disregard for human life, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, is appalling and troubling. This will only exacerbate division and animosity. I urge the UN and human rights organizations to investigate this atrocity thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable. I stand with my Afghan people during this challenging time. We will heal and rise as a nation. Inshallah!"

Heartbreaking Accounts from Kabul

Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi shared a poignant video, stating, "Tonight in Kabul, hope was extinguished at a hospital. Young men seeking treatment were killed in a bombing by the Pakistani military. Mothers waited outside, calling for their sons. On the 28th night of Ramadan, their lives were tragically cut short."

Watch the video

Captain Ibrahim Zadran's Response

Ibrahim Zadran, the captain of the T20I team, also condemned the airstrike, saying, "Tonight, I heard a massive explosion in Kabul. Moments later, flames erupted from a hospital. Our brothers who planned to fast tomorrow are now either gone or injured. My thoughts are with every grieving family tonight. Kabul is suffering. We pray for justice."

See his statement

Taliban Official Reports Heavy Casualties

In related news, Hamdullah Fitrat, the Deputy spokesman for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, reported that the death toll from the recent Pakistani military bombardment on a drug rehabilitation center in Kabul has tragically reached 400, with 250 individuals injured. He confirmed that the airstrike occurred around 9:00 PM at the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital, a facility with 2,000 beds. Significant portions of the hospital were destroyed, and rescue teams are currently on-site working to manage the fire and recover bodies. Fitrat stated, "The Pakistani military conducted an airstrike at approximately 9:00 PM on the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital. The attack has resulted in extensive destruction, and we are deeply concerned about the high casualty numbers. Rescue teams are actively working to control the situation and recover the victims' bodies."