ICBL-CMC Condemns Attack on HALO Afghanistan Deminers

(Geneva, 9 June) - The International Campaign to Ban Landmines-Cluster Munition Coalition deplores and condemns the heinous attack on the HALO Trust mine clearance team in northern Afghanistan yesterday. Our condolences go to the family, friends, and colleagues of the victims of this horrific attack on the humanitarian deminers, carrying out vital clearance work in northern Afghanistan.

“Such an attack on a humanitarian mine action team working to build safe communities is reprehensible”, said ICBL-CMC Governance Board Chair Steve Goose. “We honor the work of the HALO Trust and its team members, in seeking to achieve a mine-free Afghanistan and condemn this attack, and any attack on civilians [and humanitarian workers] as a violation of international humanitarian law”, he added.

Landmines have killed or injured some 35,000 individuals in Afghanistan according to the Landmine Monitor. The work carried out by deminers is essential as it paves the way for human security and sustainable development. 

ICBL-CMC mourns the lives of those lost in this senseless act and wishes a prompt recovery to those injured.