Three MSF Doctors Die, 30 Missing in Airstrike Against Afghan Hospital'

Taliban militants captured major parts of Afghanistan's Kunduz city, capital of Kunduz province, on September 28, 2015. The government forces backed by US military launched counter-offensive air strikes targeting these Taliban militants on Thursday, October 1, 2015, who were suspected to be hiding in a hospital in Kunduz city. Three Mdecins Sans Frontires'(MSF) doctors were killed and over 30 are missing after these air strikes, reported the hospital authorities. The US forces in Afghanistan which supports Afghan forces, assured to investigate whether its forces were involved in striking the hospital.

A statement of US force in Afghanistan said, "US forces conducted air strikes in Kunduz city at 2.15 am (local time) against individuals threatening the force. The strike may have resulted in collateral damage to a nearby medical facility. This incident is under investigation."

The MSF statement said, "The hospital's medical team is working to do everything possible for the safety of patients and hospital staff." Bart Janssens, MSF Director of Operations, said, "We are deeply shocked by the air attack, the killing of our staff and patients."

The MSF statement also urged everyone to respect the safety of health facilities and staff. The statement said, "MSF has treated 394 injured since fighting broke out last Monday in Kunduz city."

Source-IANS