In a distressing development, Iranian authorities have detained and deported a staggering 21,407 Afghan migrants who entered the country illegally, according to Majid Shuja, the Taliban-appointed commander of the border guards in Khorasan Razavi province. This mass deportation occurred within the past nine days and adds to the alarming trend of Afghan refugees facing expulsion from neighbouring countries.
The deported migrants were handed over to the Taliban’s representative in the Dogharun district, raising concerns about their safety upon return. Afghanistan-based Khaama Press reported that more than 328,000 Afghan migrants have been deported from Iran in the first half of 2023. This intensification of deportations follows reports of Afghan returnees, even those with official residency permits, being detained and forcibly sent back.
Last week, Afghan refugees in Iran expressed concerns about increased deportations, arrests, and police harassment. The Taliban, in response, urged neighbouring countries, including Iran and Pakistan, to treat Afghan refugees with tolerance and refrain from illegal deportations.
The forced deportation of Afghan refugees from both Iran and Pakistan has created a growing humanitarian crisis. Refugee representatives in Iran criticized the Iranian government and the international community for perceived insufficient support, highlighting challenges faced by Afghan refugees in employment, housing, and obtaining identity documents.
As winter approaches, the situation becomes increasingly dire, emphasizing the need for urgent international attention and humanitarian assistance to address the plight of Afghan refugees facing forced expulsion.