Kabul Responds as Iran Expels Over 700,000 Afghans in a Month
Afghanistan has reported that more than 700,000 of its citizens were expelled from Iran in just one month, triggering urgent calls from Kabul for closer coordination and humanitarian support.
Afghan Authorities Demand Respectful Process
The Commission for Refugee Affairs expressed concern over how the deportations were carried out, urging Iranian officials to work transparently with Afghanistan to avoid chaos at the borders.
Spokesperson Ahmadullah Wasiq said the treatment of Afghan nationals by Iran fell short of international norms. He stressed that if roles were reversed, Afghanistan would have been prepared to offer refuge.
Border Arrivals in Distress
Thousands arriving at the Islam Qala crossing were found to be in poor condition.
Many returnees required urgent medical care, and several were diagnosed with illnesses such as COVID-19, tuberculosis, and infectious skin conditions. Afghan authorities believe most cases originated in Iranian detention centres.
In the past month alone:
- Six women gave birth shortly after crossing the border
- 95 bodies of deceased migrants were transferred from Iran by ambulance
Urgent Plea for Humanitarian Support
Kabul has asked international organisations to scale up relief efforts, particularly in western Afghanistan, where most deportees arrive.
With many families left homeless and in need of food, shelter and healthcare, the refugee commission warned that conditions could worsen without immediate action.
Wasiq called for joint action and a more structured return process, to ensure the dignity and safety of displaced people.
