Afghan refugees face harsh conditions as deportations from Iran surge

Thousands of Afghan refugees are returning to Afghanistan daily from Iran, often under harsh conditions, following increased deportations, news reports confirm.

Many, some born in Iran, have been expelled after their visas expired or were caught without proper documents. Around 3,000 Afghans cross the border each day, with nearly 90% forcibly deported and the rest returning voluntarily, according to Afghan officials.

The deportations have surged in recent months, with refugees given a week to leave Iran or face heavy fines. Most of the returning Afghans are met by Afghan authorities and examined by the International Organization for Migration.

Iran has long been a host for millions of Afghan refugees, but rising hostility and economic pressure have led to a crackdown on undocumented migrants. Afghan officials have urged Tehran to treat refugees with compassion, while Iran’s government maintains that deportations are being conducted respectfully.