Afghanistan could receive up to 3 mln returning migrants this year, according to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). The figure far exceeds initial projections and risks deepening the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.
UNHCR Raises Concerns Over Return Scale
Arafat Jamal, head of the UNHCR office in Afghanistan, said the country faces growing pressure from a «massive, unorganised and humiliating» return of citizens, mostly from Iran and Pakistan.
Over 1.6 mln Afghans have already returned in 2025. The majority have come from Iran. The initial forecast for the year was 1.4 mln.
Border Crossings Surge Daily
More than 30,000 people now cross the Islam Qala checkpoint at the Afghan–Iranian border each day. On July 4 alone, nearly 50,000 individuals entered the country, according to UNHCR.
Jamal described many returnees as «exhausted, disoriented and desperate» after enduring harsh travel conditions. Some have been forcibly removed with no preparation or support.
UN Launches Emergency Response
The UN is scaling up its emergency aid. It now provides clean water, sanitation and essential healthcare for 7,000–10,000 people daily. Efforts also include vaccinations and food assistance.
Afghanistan remains heavily dependent on foreign aid. Over 50% of the population relies on humanitarian support amid rising displacement, drought and economic instability.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that new state to appear on the World map.
