UN condemns US drone strike in Afghanistan

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) on Sept. 29 condemned an air-strike launched by an unmanned aerial vehicle that struck a civilian home, killing 15 and injuring 13, including one child. The strike, apparently targeting Islamic State (ISIS) militants, was conducted during the early morning hours of that day in the eastern district of Achin where civilians had gathered in a village to celebrate the return of a tribal leader from the pilgrimage to Mecca. The US has admitted conducting the strike, and said it is under investigation. Expressing condolences to the families of those killed, UNAMA reiterated the need for all parties involved in the conflict to comply with international humanitarian law. UNAMA called on the government and international military forces to launch "a prompt, independent, impartial, transparent, and effective investigation into this incident."

From Jurist, Sept. 30. Used with permission.