Statement by Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides on attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers in Jalalabad, Afghanistan

I am appalled by the cowardly attacks in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, which claimed the lives of 15 civilians, including three humanitarian workers from some of our partners. We stand united with the people of Afghanistan and with the whole humanitarian community.

My thoughts are with the families of the victims and all those who were severely wounded as they tried to escape from the building under attack.

The senseless, pervasive violence in Afghanistan continues to pose a threat to the lives of innocent civilians and of those whose mission is to save the lives and relieve the suffering of vulnerable people.

All parties to this conflict must abide by the principles of International Humanitarian Law, and respect and protect civilians and those who are assisting them.