United States Mission to the United Nations
Office of Press and Public Diplomacy
For Immediate Release
July 30, 2021
Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on the Attack on a UN Compound in Afghanistan
The United States condemns the attack on the United Nations compound in Herat by anti-government militants, which resulted in the death of a local guard defending the compound. Attacks against civilians and protected persons and objects are prohibited under international law, and the perpetrators of this deplorable action must be held accountable. The civilians who carry out the vital work of the United Nations are mandated by the international community to support the people and institutions of Afghanistan and they must be able to carry out this mission safely and securely.
We continue to call for an immediate end to the ongoing violence in Afghanistan, which exacerbates the humanitarian situation there and has led to a growing number of civilian casualties and internal displacements. Together with the international community, we urge all parties to immediately reduce violence and to reach a negotiated political settlement and a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire to bring Afghans the peace they seek.
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