Over 4,700 Afghan families deported from Pakistan, Iran in one week

At least 4,700 Afghan families have returned to Afghanistan in the past week as deportations from Pakistan and Iran continue, according to Taliban statements.

From May 15–23, 3,130 families crossed back from Iran, while 1,560 families returned from Pakistan—some forcibly, others “voluntarily.” Key border crossings included Torkham (789 families), Spin Boldak (768), and Islam Qala (2,111).

Humanitarian groups warn of a growing crisis, with over 1 million Afghans expelled from Pakistan since September 2023 and another 600,000 expected by 2025. Iran has already deported 1 million Afghans this year alone.

Afghanistan, struggling with economic collapse and extreme poverty, lacks resources to support returnees. Two-thirds of the population relies on aid, and job opportunities—especially for female-headed households—are scarce under Taliban restrictions.

The Norwegian Refugee Council noted that returnees face reintegration challenges, with women confronting mobility limits and security risks. With minimal international assistance, aid agencies fear a worsening humanitarian disaster.