The Taliban’s military offensive in the Panjshir Valley can only be described as abhorrent crimes against humanity resulting in a humanitarian crisis. The actions of the Taliban include but is not limited to the massacre of innocent civilians, torture, imprisonment, use of human shields and persecution against specific groups of people because of their ethnicity.  Furthermore, the Taliban have placed a blockade on the Panjshir valley and do not allow the provision of basic aid such as food and other supplies to reach the people in Panjshir. It is important to note that the Panjshir valley has become a beacon of hope for Afghan citizens who fled the tyranny of the Taliban and sought refuge within the Panjshir Valley. The people of Panjshir have shared their supplies with the influx of displaced citizens however, these resources are not endless and there is an existential humanitarian crisis that will result in famine. The above conduct of the Taliban is in direct breach of Article 7 of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court and a myriad of other International conventions. Put simply it is in breach of international humanitarian law and constitutes a war crime.

We urgently seek a response from the Australian Government, but also the broader Australian community to condemn the actions of the Taliban which can only be described as an attempt to commit genocide.  Furthermore, we implore the Australian government and whoever else is willing, to provide aid and support to the Panjshir valley who are currently fighting for their existence and for the same freedoms and rights to self-determination that we enjoy in this great country that is Australia. The Australian Government must urge the United Nations to establish a humanitarian corridor to enable basic aid to reach the Panjshir valley.