A NATO airstrike in eastern Afghanistan has killed at least eight women, according to local officials.
The attack, in a remote region of the Laghman,also injured at least seven women, with some of the injured reported to be as young as ten.
A NATO spokesperson conceded that civilians had died after an attack on insurgents.
Major Adam Wojack told the BBC that between five to eight civilians could have died and the attack was being investigated.
"Unfortunately, we have become aware of possible Isaf-caused civilian casualties as a result of this strike, numbering five-eight Afghans," he said.
"Isaf offers its sincerest condolences to the affected community and family members, as well as to the Afghan people, concerning this tragic loss of life."
A local official said that the women were collecting wood and nuts from a forest in the mountains when they were targeted.
