A UN report revealed that tens of thousands were killed and wounded during the bloodiest phase of the Afghan conflict and the Western military presence.
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A report by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan stated that approximately 40,000 Afghan civilians were killed and more than 77,000 were injured during the period from 2009 to 2021.
These heavy losses coincided with the period of US and NATO military presence in the country.
The report explained that this phase witnessed violent and continuous clashes between the former Afghan government, Taliban militants, and international forces, making it the bloodiest in the decades-long Afghan conflict, which ended with the fall of the former government and the return of the Taliban to power in August 2021.
The report noted that the published data does not cover the entire 20 years of the war, as the UN mission only began documenting casualties and injuries in 2009, when the conflict reached its peak. Nevertheless, this document is one of the most comprehensive assessments, based on interviews with 195 victims and their families, representatives of 23 humanitarian organizations, and 23 government officials.
The mission noted that the repercussions of war extend beyond the number of dead and wounded, encompassing profound and lasting effects on survivors even after the cessation of hostilities. All respondents reported suffering from severe psychological trauma, including depression, anxiety, and traumatic memories, while more than half confirmed they continue to experience physical disabilities and chronic pain.
The report's authors warned of the severe social, economic, and emotional consequences that continue to impact the daily lives of Afghan families. They emphasized that meeting the needs of those affected through the provision of medical care, psychological support, and long-term rehabilitation programs remains essential for Afghanistan's recovery from the legacy of its protracted war.
