Image Credits - Pajhwok Afghan News
Local sources in Herat have reported an uptick in the deportation of Afghan refugees from Iran in recent weeks. This increase in deportations has raised concerns among humanitarian organizations and the Afghan government about the impact on the already strained refugee situation in the region.
According to these sources, Iranian authorities have intensified their efforts to expel Afghan refugees, many of whom had been residing in Iran legally under various asylum or temporary protection statuses. The accelerated deportations come amidst ongoing regional tensions and economic difficulties, which have heightened scrutiny and enforcement of immigration policies.
The Afghan government has called for dialogue with Iranian officials to address the situation and seek a more coordinated approach to refugee management.
The refugees being deported include individuals who had previously complied with Iranian regulations and obtained legal residency. The sudden increase in deportations has left many families in precarious situations, with reports of individuals being forcibly returned to Afghanistan without adequate preparation or resources.
Humanitarian organizations have expressed alarm over the potential humanitarian crisis this trend could exacerbate. The sudden influx of returnees into Afghanistan places additional pressure on local resources and infrastructure, particularly in border areas like Herat, which are already grappling with high numbers of internally displaced persons and refugees.
Meanwhile, international agencies are urging both governments to consider the humanitarian implications and explore alternatives to mass deportations.
As the situation develops, continued monitoring and international support will be crucial in managing the impact on affected individuals and communities. The focus remains on ensuring that refugees are treated with dignity and that their rights are upheld during this challenging period.