At least 455 civilians, including 359 children, have been killed or injured in 234 incidents involving explosive hazards in Afghanistan so far in 2024, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
In its latest report, the ICRC noted that Afghanistan remains one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to explosive hazards, which continue to pose a severe threat to communities.
“Together with the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS), our teams conducted risk awareness and safer behavior sessions across the country, reaching more than 240,000 people, over half of whom were children, in weapon-contaminated areas,” the organization said.
Humanitarian Challenges Persist
The ICRC highlighted that Afghan communities continue to face a dire humanitarian situation in 2024, exacerbated by economic hardship, natural disasters, and the lasting effects of decades of armed conflict. The report stated that international sanctions and reduced foreign aid have worsened conditions, leaving millions struggling with poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services like health care.
“The plight of vulnerable groups, including women, children, and people with disabilities, is particularly concerning,” said Katharina Ritz, head of the ICRC delegation in Afghanistan. “This alarming situation requires sustained international attention and long-term support to ensure essential assistance reaches those in need.”
In addition to conflict-related casualties, heavy rainfall and severe flash floods have affected more than 119,160 people across 32 provinces, destroying or damaging over 6,800 homes and causing significant damage to 64,500 acres of crops, the report stated. At least 225 people have died, while thousands more have been injured or displaced.
The ICRC said it continues to support 46 ARCS-run basic health-care centers, providing disease prevention and treatment services to nearly one million people, with a particular focus on women and children in both rural and urban areas.
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