UN Chief Condemns Attack in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the deadly attack in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which claimed at least 42 lives and left 20 injured. The attack, which targeted three passenger vehicles in the Parachinar area, occurred on Thursday, sparking widespread outrage and grief.
“Attacks Against Civilians Are Unacceptable”
In a statement through his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres denounced the violence, emphasizing, “Attacks against civilians are unacceptable.” Extending his condolences to the victims’ families and the Pakistani government, he called for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability for those responsible.
Sectarian Tensions and Past Clashes
The attack occurred in the Shia-dominated Parachinar region, an area with a history of sectarian clashes between Shia and Sunni tribes. Kurram district, where Parachinar is located, has witnessed violent land disputes and sectarian conflicts over the years, leading to the loss of hundreds of lives.
Following past incidents, local authorities mandated convoy travel for safety. However, Thursday’s attack underscores the continued vulnerabilities in the region. A local resident of Ochut noted, “The gunmen appeared to have prior knowledge of the convoy’s movement and strategically positioned themselves in the surrounding mountains.”
National and International Reactions
Pakistan’s Federal Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack, assuring the public that the federal government is in close coordination with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa administration. “This past week has been difficult and upsetting. We are in constant contact with KP authorities,” he said.
President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed his sorrow, calling the attack “a cowardly and inhumane act against innocent passengers.”
Call for Security Enhancements
The attack comes shortly after a large peace march in Parachinar, where thousands demanded increased security for Kurram district’s 800,000 residents, 45% of whom belong to the Shia community.
As security forces launch a search operation to apprehend the perpetrators, no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. Thursday’s violence is one of the deadliest episodes in the longstanding sectarian conflict in the region, further highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security and conflict resolution efforts.
