A/RES/55/174 that the authorities continue to limit their access to affected populations in certain areas, Noting with deep concern the substantial restrictions introduced by the Taliban authorities on the operations of the United Nations and the specialized agencies and non-governmental organizations that provide humanitarian, economic rehabilitation and development assistance in Afghanistan, and noting in particular the negative impact these restrictions have on the provision of assistance to groups in need of special protection, especially women and children, Noting with deep concern also that a significant number of Afghan refugees remain in neighbouring countries, as conditions in many parts of Afghanistan are currently not conducive to a safe and sustainable return, and acknowledging that those refugees constitute a continuing socio-economic burden for the host countries, Expressing its gratitude to all Governments that have rendered assistance to Afghan refugees, in particular those of neighbouring countries that continue to host Afghan refugee populations, and at the same time again calling upon all parties to continue to honour their obligations for the protection of refugees and internally displaced persons and to allow international access for their protection and care, Recognizing the need for continuing international assistance for the maintenance abroad and the voluntary repatriation and resettlement of refugees and internally displaced persons, and welcoming the voluntary return of refugees to rural districts in Afghanistan that are relatively stable and secure and not severely affected by the drought, Expressing its appreciation to the United Nations system, and to all States and international and non-governmental organizations that have responded positively, and continue to respond, where conditions permit, to the humanitarian needs of Afghanistan, as well as to the Secretary-General for his efforts in mobilizing and coordinating the delivery of appropriate humanitarian assistance, 1. Takes note of the report of the Secretary-General, and endorses the observations contained therein; 5 2. Stresses that the responsibility for the humanitarian crisis lies with all warring parties, in particular with the Taliban; 3. Strongly condemns the resumption of major fighting by the Taliban during the past summer, especially in the Taloqan area and the Shomali Plains, resulting in further forcible displacement of civilian populations and destruction of infrastructure; 4. Notes with alarm numerous reports of the Taliban troops deliberately destroying, burning and looting homes and assets of civilians essential for their survival in the battle zones; 5. Urges all parties, in particular the Taliban, to end immediately all armed hostilities, and calls upon the leaders of all Afghan parties to place the highest priority on national reconciliation, acknowledging the desire of the Afghan people for rehabilitation, reconstruction and economic and social development; 6. Calls upon all relevant organizations of the United Nations system to continue to coordinate closely their humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan on the 5 8 A/55/348.