International calls for restraint are growing after the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said Pakistani airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan killed at least 28 civilians and injured 49 others on Sunday (28 June).
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said women and children were among the victims in Paktia, Paktika and Kunar provinces.
"These figures are preliminary and may increase as hospitals continue to treat the injured."
According to UNAMA, the deadliest strike was in Chamkani district of Paktia province at about 11.30pm local time, where at least 22 civilians were killed and 47 others injured. Six civilians were killed in Gyan district of Paktika province, while two children were injured in Kunar's Marawara district.
UNAMA said Pakistan's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had confirmed Pakistani security forces carried out strikes in the three provinces. Pakistan has said its forces were targeting militant hideouts.
The United Kingdom's Special Representative for Afghanistan, Richard Lindsay, said civilians must be protected.
"We condemn all forms of terrorism. We urge adherence to international humanitarian law and protection of civilians, and reiterate calls to de-escalate."
United Nations Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett called for accountability.
"Pakistan's security concerns must be addressed in accordance with international law. I urge restraint, civilian protection & accountability."
The European Union (EU) also called for de-escalation.
"International humanitarian law must be respected at all times. We call for immediate de-escalation and restraint."
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Afghanistan said it was assessing the impact with UN partners.
"Children must be protected at all times."
The spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Stéphane Dujarric, said the Secretary-General was deeply concerned and called for an immediate end to hostilities.
Meanwhile, Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told local media that Kabul would respond to the strikes at an "appropriate time" and said the response would be "crushing".
He gave no further details as international officials continued to call for restraint, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.
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