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MSF staff killed in suspected US strike on Kunduz hospital in Afghanistan - latest MSF staff killed in suspected US strike on Kunduz hospital in Afghanistan - latest
(35 minutes later)
3.59pm BST15:59
Afternoon summary
An airstrike on a hospital in Afghanistan, apparently launched by US forces, has killed at least 16 people including nine medical charity workers and three child patients.
Here is the Guardian’s latest story and here is what we know so far:
3.46pm BST15:46
Official death toll in hospital bombing rises - MSF
MSF says 16 people have been killed in the MSF hospital bombings in its latest update on official figures for fatalities and casualties. The charity states:
LATEST: 16 ppl killed - 9 MSF staff, 7 patients (3 children). 37 injured - 19 staff (5 critical) & 18 patients & caretakers. #Afghanistan
3.30pm BST15:303.30pm BST15:30
Here’s more from Reuters on the apparent apology from US forces to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on the bombing:Here’s more from Reuters on the apparent apology from US forces to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on the bombing:
The head of US-led forces in Afghanistan apologised to the country’s president after a hospital run by Medecins Sans Frontieres was bombed, killing at least nine people, the president’s office said.The head of US-led forces in Afghanistan apologised to the country’s president after a hospital run by Medecins Sans Frontieres was bombed, killing at least nine people, the president’s office said.
Army General John Campbell provided details to President Ashraf Ghani and apologised, a statement from Ghani’s office said.Army General John Campbell provided details to President Ashraf Ghani and apologised, a statement from Ghani’s office said.
A spokeswoman for the international coalition could not immediately confirm that Campbell phoned Ghani but said she was checking.A spokeswoman for the international coalition could not immediately confirm that Campbell phoned Ghani but said she was checking.
3.23pm BST15:233.23pm BST15:23
US military apologises for bombing - Afghan President's OfficeUS military apologises for bombing - Afghan President's Office
Afghan President’s Office says the head of US-led forces in Afghanistan has apologised to President Ashraf Ghani after the MSF hospital bombing, according to Reuters.Afghan President’s Office says the head of US-led forces in Afghanistan has apologised to President Ashraf Ghani after the MSF hospital bombing, according to Reuters.
2.51pm BST14:512.51pm BST14:51
At least 20 staff members killed in hospital bombing - MSF doctorAt least 20 staff members killed in hospital bombing - MSF doctor
A doctor with MSF, who asked to remain anonymous , said at least 20 staff members had been killed, Sune Engel Rasmussen reports.A doctor with MSF, who asked to remain anonymous , said at least 20 staff members had been killed, Sune Engel Rasmussen reports.
Eight nurses, three doctors, six security guards, two cleaners and a pharmacist were among the dead listed by a colleague, the doctor told the Guardian.Eight nurses, three doctors, six security guards, two cleaners and a pharmacist were among the dead listed by a colleague, the doctor told the Guardian.
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Amnesty International’s Afghanistan researcher Horia Mosadiq said:Amnesty International’s Afghanistan researcher Horia Mosadiq said:
This bombing of the MSF hospital in Kunduz marks a dark day for humanitarianism.This bombing of the MSF hospital in Kunduz marks a dark day for humanitarianism.
It is sickening to think that doctors and other staff have had to pay with their lives while trying to save others. Hospitals are places of sanctity under international law governing conflict.It is sickening to think that doctors and other staff have had to pay with their lives while trying to save others. Hospitals are places of sanctity under international law governing conflict.
Our deepest condolences go out to MSF staff who have bravely and selflessly continued their work as fighting has raged in Kunduz over the past week.Our deepest condolences go out to MSF staff who have bravely and selflessly continued their work as fighting has raged in Kunduz over the past week.
There must be a full, independent and transparent investigation into how and why this bombing took place. The US military should not be jumping to conclusions without first fully getting to the bottom of how this happened.There must be a full, independent and transparent investigation into how and why this bombing took place. The US military should not be jumping to conclusions without first fully getting to the bottom of how this happened.
We call on all parties to the conflict to respect and protect humanitarian personnel and facilities and take every precaution to protect civilians caught up in the conflict.We call on all parties to the conflict to respect and protect humanitarian personnel and facilities and take every precaution to protect civilians caught up in the conflict.
2.22pm BST14:222.22pm BST14:22
The bombing followed the Taliban’s offensive in Kunduz.The bombing followed the Taliban’s offensive in Kunduz.
In a statement reported by Agence France-Presse, the Taliban accused “barbaric American forces” of deliberately carrying out Saturday’s strike, which “killed and wounded tens of doctors, nurses and patients”.In a statement reported by Agence France-Presse, the Taliban accused “barbaric American forces” of deliberately carrying out Saturday’s strike, which “killed and wounded tens of doctors, nurses and patients”.
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Here’s an extract of a report from Agence France-Presse:Here’s an extract of a report from Agence France-Presse:
The blackened building was filled with the smell of burning flesh and some bodies were charred beyond recognition, said Qiamudeen, a 31-year-old shopkeeper whose neighbour was killed in the strike.The blackened building was filled with the smell of burning flesh and some bodies were charred beyond recognition, said Qiamudeen, a 31-year-old shopkeeper whose neighbour was killed in the strike.
“I was shocked, emotional and in tears when I reached the hospital,” Qiamudeen, who goes by one name, told AFP.“I was shocked, emotional and in tears when I reached the hospital,” Qiamudeen, who goes by one name, told AFP.
Another resident said he was anxiously trying to contact six friends, all doctors and nurses at MSF.Another resident said he was anxiously trying to contact six friends, all doctors and nurses at MSF.
“I don’t have any news from them and they may have been killed,” he told AFP.“I don’t have any news from them and they may have been killed,” he told AFP.
He said many people were too afraid to leave their homes to check on wounded relatives because of sporadic firefights between troops and Taliban militants.He said many people were too afraid to leave their homes to check on wounded relatives because of sporadic firefights between troops and Taliban militants.
The Afghan government insists the city is firmly in their control.The Afghan government insists the city is firmly in their control.
2.15pm BST14:152.15pm BST14:15
Here’s some more reaction to the airstrikes on Twitter, much of the commentary focusing on the apparent US role in the bombings.Here’s some more reaction to the airstrikes on Twitter, much of the commentary focusing on the apparent US role in the bombings.
The U.S. inability to distinguish an @MSF hospital in #Kunduz from Islamist militants is a tragically apt metaphor for this 14 Years War.The U.S. inability to distinguish an @MSF hospital in #Kunduz from Islamist militants is a tragically apt metaphor for this 14 Years War.
Days of hysteria over Russian strikes, then the US bombs a hospital and suddenly "civilians" become "collateral damage". Disgusting. #KunduzDays of hysteria over Russian strikes, then the US bombs a hospital and suddenly "civilians" become "collateral damage". Disgusting. #Kunduz
It is incredible how resilient and brave the doctors of @MSF_USA are. Their friends were just killed in a US-led air strike. #KunduzIt is incredible how resilient and brave the doctors of @MSF_USA are. Their friends were just killed in a US-led air strike. #Kunduz
Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go to @MSF_uk and @MSF today after staff and patients were killed in the #Kunduz hospital bombingOur hearts, thoughts and prayers go to @MSF_uk and @MSF today after staff and patients were killed in the #Kunduz hospital bombing
12.54pm BST12:5412.54pm BST12:54
Sune Engel Rasmussen has this statement from Human Rights Watch:Sune Engel Rasmussen has this statement from Human Rights Watch:
Human Rights Watch have “grave concerns about whether US forces took sufficient precautions to identify and avoid striking the facility,” the group said in a statement.Human Rights Watch have “grave concerns about whether US forces took sufficient precautions to identify and avoid striking the facility,” the group said in a statement.
“The bombing of the hospital is a shocking development for Kunduz, where civilians and aid workers are already at grave risk from the fighting,” said Patricia Gossman, senior researcher at Human Rights Watch. “All forces are obligated to do their utmost to avoid causing civilian harm.”“The bombing of the hospital is a shocking development for Kunduz, where civilians and aid workers are already at grave risk from the fighting,” said Patricia Gossman, senior researcher at Human Rights Watch. “All forces are obligated to do their utmost to avoid causing civilian harm.”
The group called for an impartial, thorough and transparent investigation into the incident to establish the circumstances of the attack, and urged the US to review its targeting procedures to ensure such incidents do not reoccur, it said in the statement.The group called for an impartial, thorough and transparent investigation into the incident to establish the circumstances of the attack, and urged the US to review its targeting procedures to ensure such incidents do not reoccur, it said in the statement.
12.38pm BST12:3812.38pm BST12:38
Updated at 12.49pm BSTUpdated at 12.49pm BST
11.58am BST11:5811.58am BST11:58
Head of Humanitarian Analysis at MSF steps up pressure on US authorities to provide more detail on its airstrike in Kunduz.Head of Humanitarian Analysis at MSF steps up pressure on US authorities to provide more detail on its airstrike in Kunduz.
#MSF demands clarity on exactly what took place at our hospital in #Kunduz #Afghanistan & how this unacceptable event could have happened#MSF demands clarity on exactly what took place at our hospital in #Kunduz #Afghanistan & how this unacceptable event could have happened
11.46am BST11:4611.46am BST11:46
Taliban fighters had entered the hospital and were firing at security forces from inside the compound, Sarwar Husaini, a spokesman for Kunduz police said.Taliban fighters had entered the hospital and were firing at security forces from inside the compound, Sarwar Husaini, a spokesman for Kunduz police said.
Updated at 12.18pm BSTUpdated at 12.18pm BST
11.22am BST11:2211.22am BST11:22
Sune Engel Rasmussen has spoken to 22-year-old Nasratullah from Kunduz about his cousin, Akbar, 25, who had been killed in the bombing.Sune Engel Rasmussen has spoken to 22-year-old Nasratullah from Kunduz about his cousin, Akbar, 25, who had been killed in the bombing.
“He had been working in the hospital for a long time. He was a famous doctor,” Nasratullah said. He expressed frustration with the US forces and said that even if the Taliban had sought refuge inside the hospital, which some Afghan officials have claimed, it should not have been targeted.“He had been working in the hospital for a long time. He was a famous doctor,” Nasratullah said. He expressed frustration with the US forces and said that even if the Taliban had sought refuge inside the hospital, which some Afghan officials have claimed, it should not have been targeted.
“Why did the US blow up the whole hospital?” Nasratullah said. “We know that the Americans are very clever. If they can target a single person in a car from their planes, why did they have to blow up the whole building?”“Why did the US blow up the whole hospital?” Nasratullah said. “We know that the Americans are very clever. If they can target a single person in a car from their planes, why did they have to blow up the whole building?”
Afghan officials, including the spokesman of Kunduz police, Sarwar Husaini, have claimed that the Taliban were firing at security forces from inside the MSF compound at the time of the attack. However, MSF say they can’t confirm the claim.Afghan officials, including the spokesman of Kunduz police, Sarwar Husaini, have claimed that the Taliban were firing at security forces from inside the MSF compound at the time of the attack. However, MSF say they can’t confirm the claim.
“We have absolutely no information about that,” the organisation said.“We have absolutely no information about that,” the organisation said.
11.03am BST11:0311.03am BST11:03
Here’s more reaction and comment on the Kunduz hospital bombing from Twitter:Here’s more reaction and comment on the Kunduz hospital bombing from Twitter:
Solidarity with @MSF. Bombing a hospital is an UNACCEPTABLE act of violence #Kunduz #Afghanistan.Solidarity with @MSF. Bombing a hospital is an UNACCEPTABLE act of violence #Kunduz #Afghanistan.
Latest on the @MSF hospital bombing in Kunduz: 9 dead. And MSF had informed authorities of GPS location of its facility beforehand. DreadfulLatest on the @MSF hospital bombing in Kunduz: 9 dead. And MSF had informed authorities of GPS location of its facility beforehand. Dreadful
Bombing of #MSF hospital in #Kunduz #Afghanistan continued for more than 30mins after alarm was raised to US & Afghan military officialsBombing of #MSF hospital in #Kunduz #Afghanistan continued for more than 30mins after alarm was raised to US & Afghan military officials
Age of majority of #MSF doctors (and staff) is below 30. Finding staff in general for #Kunduz is very difficult (particularly doctors).Age of majority of #MSF doctors (and staff) is below 30. Finding staff in general for #Kunduz is very difficult (particularly doctors).
Kunduz @MSF hospital coordinates know to coalition forces and others - yet still hit https://t.co/DVpvgXqVuvKunduz @MSF hospital coordinates know to coalition forces and others - yet still hit https://t.co/DVpvgXqVuv
10.56am BST10:5610.56am BST10:56
UN Afghanistan chief condemns airstrikeUN Afghanistan chief condemns airstrike
Nicholas Haysom, the UN’s special representative for Afghanistan and chief of United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), issued this statement:Nicholas Haysom, the UN’s special representative for Afghanistan and chief of United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), issued this statement:
I condemn in the strongest terms the tragic and devastating air strike on the Médecins sans Frontières hospital in Kunduz early this morning, which resulted in the deaths and injury of medical personnel, patients and other civilians.I condemn in the strongest terms the tragic and devastating air strike on the Médecins sans Frontières hospital in Kunduz early this morning, which resulted in the deaths and injury of medical personnel, patients and other civilians.
Hospitals accommodating patients and medical personnel may never be the object of attack, and international humanitarian law also prohibits the use of medical facilities for military purposes.Hospitals accommodating patients and medical personnel may never be the object of attack, and international humanitarian law also prohibits the use of medical facilities for military purposes.
I commend Médecins sans Frontières for their work. Our condolences are with them, their patients, family and friends.I commend Médecins sans Frontières for their work. Our condolences are with them, their patients, family and friends.
I reiterate my call on all parties to the conflict to respect and protect medical and humanitarian personnel and facilities.I reiterate my call on all parties to the conflict to respect and protect medical and humanitarian personnel and facilities.
Updated at 10.56am BSTUpdated at 10.56am BST
10.37am BST10:3710.37am BST10:37
Shocking: @MSF says the bombing of their Kunduz hospital continued 30 minutes after US and Afghan officials were first informed #afghanistanShocking: @MSF says the bombing of their Kunduz hospital continued 30 minutes after US and Afghan officials were first informed #afghanistan
10.32am BST10:3210.32am BST10:32
Bombing continued for 30 minutes after US forces made aware - MSFBombing continued for 30 minutes after US forces made aware - MSF
Here’s an update from Sune Engel Rasmussen, reporting for the Guardian in Afghanistan.Here’s an update from Sune Engel Rasmussen, reporting for the Guardian in Afghanistan.
MSF said nine of its staff members were killed during the bombing on Saturday morning and another 37 were wounded, including 19 staff. The group emphasised that those numbers were likely to rise.MSF said nine of its staff members were killed during the bombing on Saturday morning and another 37 were wounded, including 19 staff. The group emphasised that those numbers were likely to rise.
“There are many patients and staff who remain unaccounted for. The numbers keep growing as we develop a clearer picture of the aftermath of this horrific bombing,” MSF said in a statement.“There are many patients and staff who remain unaccounted for. The numbers keep growing as we develop a clearer picture of the aftermath of this horrific bombing,” MSF said in a statement.
MSF also confirmed the Guardian’s previous reporting that the organisation had shared GPS coordinates of its medical facilities on Kunduz with Nato and the US military. MSF also said the bombing of their hospital continued for 30 minutes after American and Afghan officials had been made aware that it was under attack.MSF also confirmed the Guardian’s previous reporting that the organisation had shared GPS coordinates of its medical facilities on Kunduz with Nato and the US military. MSF also said the bombing of their hospital continued for 30 minutes after American and Afghan officials had been made aware that it was under attack.
“MSF condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific bombing of its hospital in Kunduz full of staff and patients. MSF wishes to clarify that all parties to the conflict, including in Kabul and Washington, were clearly informed of the precise location (GPS Coordinates) of the MSF facilities - hospital, guesthouse, office and an outreach stabilization unit in Chardara (to the north-west of Kunduz). As MSF does in all conflict contexts, these precise locations were communicated to all parties on multiple occasions over the past months, including most recently on 29 September,” the statement said.“MSF condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific bombing of its hospital in Kunduz full of staff and patients. MSF wishes to clarify that all parties to the conflict, including in Kabul and Washington, were clearly informed of the precise location (GPS Coordinates) of the MSF facilities - hospital, guesthouse, office and an outreach stabilization unit in Chardara (to the north-west of Kunduz). As MSF does in all conflict contexts, these precise locations were communicated to all parties on multiple occasions over the past months, including most recently on 29 September,” the statement said.
“The bombing continued for more than 30 minutes after American and Afghan military officials in Kabul and Washington were first informed. MSF urgently seeks clarity on exactly what took place and how this terrible event could have happened.”“The bombing continued for more than 30 minutes after American and Afghan military officials in Kabul and Washington were first informed. MSF urgently seeks clarity on exactly what took place and how this terrible event could have happened.”
MSF said some of the most critically wounded by the bombing had been transferred for stabilisation in a hospital in Pul-e Khumri two hours’ drive away.MSF said some of the most critically wounded by the bombing had been transferred for stabilisation in a hospital in Pul-e Khumri two hours’ drive away.
Updated at 10.43am BSTUpdated at 10.43am BST
10.25am BST10:2510.25am BST10:25
MSF have released the following update:MSF have released the following update:
It is with deep sadness that we confirm so far the death of nine MSF staff during the bombing last night of MSF’s hospital in Kunduz.It is with deep sadness that we confirm so far the death of nine MSF staff during the bombing last night of MSF’s hospital in Kunduz.
Latest update is that 37 people were seriously wounded during the bombing, of whom 19 are MSF staff.Latest update is that 37 people were seriously wounded during the bombing, of whom 19 are MSF staff.
Some of the most critically injured are being transferred for stabilisation to a hospital in Puli Khumri, two hours’ drive away. There are many patients and staff who remain unaccounted for. The numbers keep growing as we develop a clearer picture of the aftermath of this horrific bombing.Some of the most critically injured are being transferred for stabilisation to a hospital in Puli Khumri, two hours’ drive away. There are many patients and staff who remain unaccounted for. The numbers keep growing as we develop a clearer picture of the aftermath of this horrific bombing.
10.23am BST10:2310.23am BST10:23
Hospital bombing death toll risesHospital bombing death toll rises
MSF says nine staff confirmed as dead so far following the bombing at its hospital in KunduzMSF says nine staff confirmed as dead so far following the bombing at its hospital in Kunduz
It is with deep sadness that we confirm so far the death of nine MSF staff during the bombing last night of MSF’s hospital in #Kunduz.It is with deep sadness that we confirm so far the death of nine MSF staff during the bombing last night of MSF’s hospital in #Kunduz.
10.19am BST10:1910.19am BST10:19
Related: Aftermath of MSF hospital bombing in Afghanistan - in picturesRelated: Aftermath of MSF hospital bombing in Afghanistan - in pictures
10.04am BST10:0410.04am BST10:04
More from reporter Sune Engel Rasmussen in Afghanistan:More from reporter Sune Engel Rasmussen in Afghanistan:
If it is confirmed that a US airstrike was responsible for the deaths, it will be at least the third time in the past few months such airstrikes have accidentally killed scores of non-insurgents.If it is confirmed that a US airstrike was responsible for the deaths, it will be at least the third time in the past few months such airstrikes have accidentally killed scores of non-insurgents.
In July, two helicopters struck an Afghan National Army outpost on a hill in Logar province, killing eight soldiers and wounding five, seemingly mistaking them for armed rebels. The police chief of Logar said the helicopters were American. The US military confirmed that its troops had been involved in an incident in the area.In July, two helicopters struck an Afghan National Army outpost on a hill in Logar province, killing eight soldiers and wounding five, seemingly mistaking them for armed rebels. The police chief of Logar said the helicopters were American. The US military confirmed that its troops had been involved in an incident in the area.
In September, Afghan officials claimed a US airstrike killed 11 anti-narcotics police officers working undercover in a desert area of Helmand’s Garmsir district. The US military denied having conducted an airstrike in that area, but confirmed that an attack had taken place in Kandahar’s Maiwand district, which encompasses the same borderless desert area.In September, Afghan officials claimed a US airstrike killed 11 anti-narcotics police officers working undercover in a desert area of Helmand’s Garmsir district. The US military denied having conducted an airstrike in that area, but confirmed that an attack had taken place in Kandahar’s Maiwand district, which encompasses the same borderless desert area.
A US military spokesperson said the US had conducted 12 airstrikes in Kunduz since Monday when the Taliban seized the city. Through 31 August, the US had conducted 143 airstrikes in Afghanistan, according to military statistics, including a series of strikes to aid Afghan forces push back insurgents from Helmand’s Musa Qala and Kajaki districts.A US military spokesperson said the US had conducted 12 airstrikes in Kunduz since Monday when the Taliban seized the city. Through 31 August, the US had conducted 143 airstrikes in Afghanistan, according to military statistics, including a series of strikes to aid Afghan forces push back insurgents from Helmand’s Musa Qala and Kajaki districts.
Updated at 10.10am BSTUpdated at 10.10am BST
9.50am BST09:509.50am BST09:50
Here’s some reaction from commentariat on Twitter, many focusing on the alleged US role in the tragedy:Here’s some reaction from commentariat on Twitter, many focusing on the alleged US role in the tragedy:
True heroes MT @MSF_Press: Surgery underway in the aftermath of bombing of #MSF's #Kunduz hospital #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/TzloWZ5P0ITrue heroes MT @MSF_Press: Surgery underway in the aftermath of bombing of #MSF's #Kunduz hospital #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/TzloWZ5P0I
Kunduz tragedy…even more inexcusable: https://t.co/rLrf7lZ3a6Kunduz tragedy…even more inexcusable: https://t.co/rLrf7lZ3a6
After blasting #Putin for bombing civilians in #Syria, US hits last functioning hospital in #Kunduz #Afghanistan http://t.co/r1Z2hSaEOUAfter blasting #Putin for bombing civilians in #Syria, US hits last functioning hospital in #Kunduz #Afghanistan http://t.co/r1Z2hSaEOU
Once more, against all rules, a hospital is attacked. 3 #humanitarians killed. My condolences to @JoanneLiu_MSF & all @MSF staff. #KunduzOnce more, against all rules, a hospital is attacked. 3 #humanitarians killed. My condolences to @JoanneLiu_MSF & all @MSF staff. #Kunduz
Awful news from #Kunduz - US bombs land on @MSF clinic. And these are "precision" weapons and airstrikes... http://t.co/j0v5HVoa3bAwful news from #Kunduz - US bombs land on @MSF clinic. And these are "precision" weapons and airstrikes... http://t.co/j0v5HVoa3b
9.41am BST09:419.41am BST09:41
All international staff survived airstrike - MSFAll international staff survived airstrike - MSF
All 10 international staff at MSF hospital in Kunduz survived the airstrike, @MSF says. #AfghanistanAll 10 international staff at MSF hospital in Kunduz survived the airstrike, @MSF says. #Afghanistan
9.24am BST09:249.24am BST09:24
More from my colleague Sune Engel Rasmussen:More from my colleague Sune Engel Rasmussen:
The International Committee of the Red Cross has condemned the airstrike, saying it is “deeply shocked by the bombing of the MSF hospital in Kunduz, and strongly condemns such violence against patients, medical workers and facilities.”The International Committee of the Red Cross has condemned the airstrike, saying it is “deeply shocked by the bombing of the MSF hospital in Kunduz, and strongly condemns such violence against patients, medical workers and facilities.”
Jean-Nicolas Marti, Head of the ICRC delegation in Afghanistan, said: “This is an appalling tragedy. Such attacks against health workers and facilities undermine the capacity of humanitarian organizations to assist the Afghan people at a time when they most urgently need it.”Jean-Nicolas Marti, Head of the ICRC delegation in Afghanistan, said: “This is an appalling tragedy. Such attacks against health workers and facilities undermine the capacity of humanitarian organizations to assist the Afghan people at a time when they most urgently need it.”
The US Embassy in Kabul also issued a statement, expressing grief for the families affected by “the tragic incident”:The US Embassy in Kabul also issued a statement, expressing grief for the families affected by “the tragic incident”:
“The U.S. Embassy mourns for the individuals and families affected by the tragic incident at the Doctors without Borders hospital, and for all those suffering from the violence in Kunduz. Doctors without Borders performs heroic work throughout the world, including in Afghanistan, and our thoughts and prayers are with their team at this difficult moment. We remain deeply concerned about the ongoing violence in Kunduz and the difficult humanitarian situation faced by its residents,” the statement read.“The U.S. Embassy mourns for the individuals and families affected by the tragic incident at the Doctors without Borders hospital, and for all those suffering from the violence in Kunduz. Doctors without Borders performs heroic work throughout the world, including in Afghanistan, and our thoughts and prayers are with their team at this difficult moment. We remain deeply concerned about the ongoing violence in Kunduz and the difficult humanitarian situation faced by its residents,” the statement read.
9.19am BST09:199.19am BST09:19
Location of MSF hospital 'known' to US forces and partnersLocation of MSF hospital 'known' to US forces and partners
Sune Engel Rasmussen, reporting for the Guardian in Afghanistan, has this update:Sune Engel Rasmussen, reporting for the Guardian in Afghanistan, has this update:
It seems the US forces and their Afghan partners should have been fully aware of the location of the MSF hospital. During the past week’s fighting, MSF sent out press releases, describing how their hospital staff found themselves on the frontline.It seems the US forces and their Afghan partners should have been fully aware of the location of the MSF hospital. During the past week’s fighting, MSF sent out press releases, describing how their hospital staff found themselves on the frontline.
In addition, MSF also distributed an email to a range of recipients, including Nato, the US military, and the Afghan ministry of defence with the the exact coordinates of their hospital, the group’s country representative, Guilhem Molinie, told the Guardian.In addition, MSF also distributed an email to a range of recipients, including Nato, the US military, and the Afghan ministry of defence with the the exact coordinates of their hospital, the group’s country representative, Guilhem Molinie, told the Guardian.
9.00am BST09:009.00am BST09:00
Sune Engel Rasmussen, reporting for the Guardian from Afghanistan, has this update:Sune Engel Rasmussen, reporting for the Guardian from Afghanistan, has this update:
Police spokesman Sarwar Husaini said the area surrounding the MSF facilities was under Taliban control, and that there was heavy fighting going on throughout Friday night. He confirmed that the aircraft, which launched the airstrike around 2am belonged to “the foreigners”.Police spokesman Sarwar Husaini said the area surrounding the MSF facilities was under Taliban control, and that there was heavy fighting going on throughout Friday night. He confirmed that the aircraft, which launched the airstrike around 2am belonged to “the foreigners”.
The US military said they had conducted 12 airstrikes in and around Kunduz since Sept 29th, assisting the Afghan forces in recapturing the city from the Taliban.The US military said they had conducted 12 airstrikes in and around Kunduz since Sept 29th, assisting the Afghan forces in recapturing the city from the Taliban.
“The majority of the airstrikes have taken place on the outskirts of the city and in the vicinity of the airport. This is the second airstrike that has been against individuals threatening the force within Kunduz city,” said Susan Harrington, a spokesperson.“The majority of the airstrikes have taken place on the outskirts of the city and in the vicinity of the airport. This is the second airstrike that has been against individuals threatening the force within Kunduz city,” said Susan Harrington, a spokesperson.
8.43am BST08:438.43am BST08:43
Surgery is continuing in the undamaged section of the hospital in Kunduz, MSF said.Surgery is continuing in the undamaged section of the hospital in Kunduz, MSF said.
Since fighting broke out on Monday, MSF had treated 394 wounded in Kunduz. When the aerial attack occurred Saturday morning, there were 105 patients with relatives, as well as over 80 MSF international and national staff present, the group said in its statement.Since fighting broke out on Monday, MSF had treated 394 wounded in Kunduz. When the aerial attack occurred Saturday morning, there were 105 patients with relatives, as well as over 80 MSF international and national staff present, the group said in its statement.
Surgery this morning in undamaged section of #Kunduz hospital #Afghanistan in aftermath of bombing; OTs destroyed pic.twitter.com/IQIzN7SDXiSurgery this morning in undamaged section of #Kunduz hospital #Afghanistan in aftermath of bombing; OTs destroyed pic.twitter.com/IQIzN7SDXi
8.41am BST08:418.41am BST08:41
The bombing comes after the Afghan government on Thursday claimed they had regained control of Kunduz, after the Taliban seized the key city in northern Afghanistan on Monday.The bombing comes after the Afghan government on Thursday claimed they had regained control of Kunduz, after the Taliban seized the key city in northern Afghanistan on Monday.
However, fighting has since endured in pockets around the city, and in surrounding districts, with both sides claiming to be in control.However, fighting has since endured in pockets around the city, and in surrounding districts, with both sides claiming to be in control.
#AFG Residents Kundoz,a number of buildings&homes taken by groups of TB with suicide vests.Civilians inside those homes inclu women&children#AFG Residents Kundoz,a number of buildings&homes taken by groups of TB with suicide vests.Civilians inside those homes inclu women&children
The capture of Kunduz marked the first time since 2001 the Taliban breach an urban area.The capture of Kunduz marked the first time since 2001 the Taliban breach an urban area.
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Dr Bart Janssens, director of operations at MSF, told the Today programme on Radio 4:Dr Bart Janssens, director of operations at MSF, told the Today programme on Radio 4:
We only know that there was a horrific bombing that started around 2am and continued for a long time. We are still debriefing our teams to get more information. The hospital was extremely badly damaged and burned. Three people have died but we are very fearful for the fate of more than 30 people still missing.We only know that there was a horrific bombing that started around 2am and continued for a long time. We are still debriefing our teams to get more information. The hospital was extremely badly damaged and burned. Three people have died but we are very fearful for the fate of more than 30 people still missing.
Our main concern is to get the survivors, alive, out of the very complicated area. It is clear that the hospital has been hit several times by large explosions and we still have no full confirmation on whether it was an aerial or ground attack.Our main concern is to get the survivors, alive, out of the very complicated area. It is clear that the hospital has been hit several times by large explosions and we still have no full confirmation on whether it was an aerial or ground attack.
This hospital was very well known. It was the only functional hospital in Kunduz since the fighting had begun and we have shared extensively the locations of this hospital with all warring parties in Afghanistan. There is no doubt this place was known as a hospital.This hospital was very well known. It was the only functional hospital in Kunduz since the fighting had begun and we have shared extensively the locations of this hospital with all warring parties in Afghanistan. There is no doubt this place was known as a hospital.
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MSF, which has operated in the Afghan city since fighting broke out between government and Taliban forces, has tweeted the following:MSF, which has operated in the Afghan city since fighting broke out between government and Taliban forces, has tweeted the following:
1/2: #MSF shocked by bombing of MSF hospital in #Kunduz. Staff, patients killed. http://t.co/5nAAocsEBT1/2: #MSF shocked by bombing of MSF hospital in #Kunduz. Staff, patients killed. http://t.co/5nAAocsEBT
2/2: All fighting parties must respect healthcare facilities. #MSF trauma center in Kunduz only facility of its kind in northern Afghanistan2/2: All fighting parties must respect healthcare facilities. #MSF trauma center in Kunduz only facility of its kind in northern Afghanistan
#MSF #Kunduz trauma center aflame after aerial attack this morn. Staff tending to patients, each other, in aftermath pic.twitter.com/o6toDwivym#MSF #Kunduz trauma center aflame after aerial attack this morn. Staff tending to patients, each other, in aftermath pic.twitter.com/o6toDwivym
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A spokesman for the US military admitted they might be responsible for the air strike, which killed at least three people at a Médecins Sans Frontières hospital in Afghanistan.A spokesman for the US military admitted they might be responsible for the air strike, which killed at least three people at a Médecins Sans Frontières hospital in Afghanistan.
Colonel Brian Tribus, spokesman for international forces in Afghanistan, said: “US forces conducted an airstrike in Kunduz city at 2:15am (local), 3 October, against individuals threatening the force.Colonel Brian Tribus, spokesman for international forces in Afghanistan, said: “US forces conducted an airstrike in Kunduz city at 2:15am (local), 3 October, against individuals threatening the force.
“The strike may have resulted in collateral damage to a nearby medical facility. This incident is under investigation.”“The strike may have resulted in collateral damage to a nearby medical facility. This incident is under investigation.”
The bombardment apparently followed heavy fighting around the hospital. An MSF staff member, who was on duty at the time, told the Guardian: “I was inside my office. Around 2am, the plane started bombing the main building of MSF. It lasted one-and-a-half hours. After 3.30am, I came out from my office and saw all of the hospital was on fire,” the staff member said.The bombardment apparently followed heavy fighting around the hospital. An MSF staff member, who was on duty at the time, told the Guardian: “I was inside my office. Around 2am, the plane started bombing the main building of MSF. It lasted one-and-a-half hours. After 3.30am, I came out from my office and saw all of the hospital was on fire,” the staff member said.
“We couldn’t save our doctors, our nurses, our cleaners, our friends. They burned inside the hospital. We couldn’t save our brothers and friends,” the staff member said, asking to remain anonymous.“We couldn’t save our doctors, our nurses, our cleaners, our friends. They burned inside the hospital. We couldn’t save our brothers and friends,” the staff member said, asking to remain anonymous.
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Good morning. News is breaking that a US airstrike appears to have hit a hospital run by Médecins Sans Frontières in the Afghan city of Kunduz.Good morning. News is breaking that a US airstrike appears to have hit a hospital run by Médecins Sans Frontières in the Afghan city of Kunduz.
The charity said its hospital in the war-torn northern city was bombed and badly damaged by an aerial attack that killed at least three staff members.The charity said its hospital in the war-torn northern city was bombed and badly damaged by an aerial attack that killed at least three staff members.
At the time of the bombing, 105 patients and their carers, and more than 80 MSF international and national staff were in the hospital, the charity said.At the time of the bombing, 105 patients and their carers, and more than 80 MSF international and national staff were in the hospital, the charity said.
Thirty staff were still unaccounted for and officials have said the death toll could climb. We will keep you up to date with all the latest developments here throughout the day.Thirty staff were still unaccounted for and officials have said the death toll could climb. We will keep you up to date with all the latest developments here throughout the day.
Updated at 8.17am BSTUpdated at 8.17am BST