More than 700 trucks carrying international humanitarian aid have arrived in Afghanistan via Pakistan, despite the near-total closure of the land border between the two countries following clashes in October, the United Nations announced on Sunday. The convoy, which carried food and other critical humanitarian items, marks a significant effort to support the Afghan population facing acute hunger and malnutrition.
Critical Aid Amid Crisis
Olga Cherevko, spokeswoman for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan, confirmed that the convoy included essential supplies. 'The convoy was carrying food and other critical humanitarian items,' she told AFP. The aid is crucial as acute child malnutrition has reached critical levels in Afghanistan this year, according to the World Food Programme (WFP).
Logistical Challenges
The delivery of aid has been complicated by the ongoing conflict with Pakistan, which has led to the near-total closure of the land border since October 2025. This has severely disrupted logistical routes for delivering humanitarian aid. WFP Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau highlighted the challenges in May, noting the impact of the conflict on aid delivery.
Thanks to Pakistan
United Nations Resident & Humanitarian Coordinator for Pakistan Mo Yahya expressed gratitude on X, stating, 'Seven hundred and twenty four trucks of humanitarian cargo have crossed into Afghanistan through Torkham, reaching families who need it most.' He thanked Islamabad and all those involved in keeping the humanitarian lifeline open.
Background and Context
The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan has been exacerbated by a series of events, including deadly earthquakes last year, climate-related disasters this year, and the return of millions of Afghans from Iran and Pakistan since 2023. According to the WFP, nearly 14 million Afghans are currently facing acute hunger. The delivery of aid, particularly through alternative routes, has been vital in addressing these needs.
