The United Nations says more than 1,000 civilians have been killed in Afghanistan, and over 2,600 injured in violent attacks since the Taliban returned to power almost two years ago.

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, or UNAMA, released a report on Tuesday on civilian casualties of explosive devices, including suicide attacks. The report covered the period between August 2021 and May this year.

It says the majority of victims had been caught in bombings in crowded places, such as mosques, schools and markets. It blamed the Islamic State militant group for the violence.

The figures indicate a significant increase in suffering and death from improvised explosives, even though armed conflict has declined since the Taliban took over and US and NATO troops withdrew.

UNAMA also pointed out that the situation for victims has become worse because it's harder to get essential support due to the country's poor economy.

The UN body is calling on the Taliban to take protective measures to prevent further attacks at public places.