Thousands of Afghan refugees are facing forced deportation from Pakistan and Iran, as neighbouring countries intensify crackdowns on undocumented migrants. The Taliban's tightening control over Afghanistan has worsened an already dire humanitarian situation, leaving many returnees with nowhere to turn.
Mass Expulsions Underway
Pakistan has recently accelerated its efforts to expel Afghan nationals, with reports indicating that over a million refugees may be affected. Similarly, Iran has been deporting thousands of Afghans, many of whom fled their homeland following the Taliban's resurgence in 2021.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The forced returns come at a time when Afghanistan is grappling with severe economic collapse, food shortages, and restricted access to basic services under Taliban rule. International aid organisations warn that the mass deportations could further strain the country's fragile infrastructure.
Taliban's Response
The Taliban-led government has claimed it is prepared to welcome returning citizens, but critics argue that the regime lacks the resources and capacity to support the influx. Many returnees face homelessness, unemployment, and potential persecution under the hardline Islamist regime.
International Concerns
Human rights groups have condemned the deportations, calling on Pakistan and Iran to halt the expulsions until Afghanistan's humanitarian situation improves. The UN has warned that the forced returns violate international refugee protections.
As winter approaches, concerns are growing for the welfare of displaced Afghans, particularly women and children, who face heightened risks under the Taliban's restrictive policies.
