Afghans rally against Pakistan

Decorating their soldiers with colourful garlands, hundreds of Afghans gathered in border provinces to decry Pakistan killing civilians and to show support for their troops battling at the frontier.

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A week of border fighting between the two neighbours has killed dozens of Afghan civilians and displaced tens of thousands, according to UN figures.

In Gardez, the capital of eastern Paktia province, residents gathered while some waved the white flag of the Taliban government.

“Today we're out in central Paktia, Gardez, against the cruel attacks of Pakistan on Afghan civilians,” said Ghamay, a demonstrator who only gave one name.

“We're out here to defend our land,” he added.

At least 42 civilians have been killed and 104 wounded since 26 February, the UN mission in Afghanistan reported.