The European Union called for permanent ceasefire in Afghanistan on Thursday, condemning escalation of violence across the country caused by the Taliban.
The EU calls for an urgent, comprehensive and permanent ceasefire to give peace a chance. Undoubtedly, the ceasefire call comes within the framework of multiple armed attacks; such the attack on UNAMA office in Herat province, and subsequent fighting in Lashkar Gah having caused at least 40 civilian casualties.
In addition, the most recent attack, targeted the Kabul residence of Defence Minister Bismillah Mohammadi, killed eight and wounded at least 20 people.
This serious violence is inflicting immense suffering upon Afghan citizens and increasing the number of internally displaced persons in search of safety and shelter.
Indeed, the Taliban attacks are in direct contradiction to their stated commitment to a negotiated settlement of the conflict and the Doha peace process.
Violations of principles of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and human rights continue to rock the country, particularly in Taliban-controlled areas, such as arbitrary and extrajudicial killings of civilians, public lashing of women and the destruction of infrastructure.
Some of these acts could amount to war crimes and will have to be investigated. Those Taliban fighters or commanders responsible must be held accountable.
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