UN Reports Rise in Women, Children Casualties in Afghan War
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The United Nations said there has been a sharp increase in casualties suffered by women and children in Afghanistan's war against the Taliban and other insurgents this year.
It says the total number of people killed or wounded in the almost 14-year conflict was up one percent in the first half of this year, compared to the same period last year. However, the number of women casualties rose by 23 percent and children by 13 percent, AP reported on Wednesday.
The UN says Wednesday that 4,921 civilian deaths and injuries were recorded in the first half of this year.
It says 90 percent of civilian casualties resulted from fighting on the ground, improvised explosive devices, suicide attacks and targeted killings.
The Taliban have escalated their attacks this year, following the departure of international combat troops.
