Iran Urges Undocumented Afghans to Leave Amid Rising Deportations

Iran Urges Undocumented Afghans to Leave Amid Rising Deportations
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Iran’s interior minister announced that nearly six million Afghans currently reside in the country, with around two million lacking legal documentation, Amu TV reported. Authorities have warned that undocumented individuals must leave, citing national legal requirements.

The minister claimed nearly one million Afghans have left Iran since the start of the year, asserting that 70 percent of these departures were voluntary and respectful. However, this statement contrasts with findings from international rights groups, which report that the majority of deportations were forced and often involved mistreatment, including physical abuse and confiscation of property.

Iran, historically a refuge for Afghans fleeing conflict and poverty, has tightened restrictions in recent years due to growing economic challenges. Since early July, deportation rates have surged, with reports indicating that between 12,000 and 30,000 Afghan migrants have been expelled daily. Many returnees have alleged harsh treatment during their removal.