The United States Special Envoy for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad has expressed serious concerns over surge in violence in the country.

“The last 24 hours have been very violent in Afghanistan with many losing their lives. In Herat, photos and eyewitness accounts suggest many civilians including children are among the victims of an Afghan airstrike. We condemn the attack and support an investigation,” he said on his twitter.

Khalilzad has urged the warring sides in Afghanistan to halt violence ahead of the intra-Afghan negotiations.

“Rather than setting the process back, we urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close,” he added.

He further stated that “the Afghan people want an immediate start of peace negotiations and a settlement that is in their best interest. More graves will not bring negotiations forward.”

Arezo News – Salimi