Former Afghan Military Pilot Self-Immolates in Iran After Deportation Notice

Mohammad Amir Tawsili, a former Afghan military pilot, tragically ended his life by setting himself on fire in Mashhad, Iran, after Iranian authorities denied his residency permit renewal and issued an exit notice, Khaama Press reported.

Facing forced deportation to Afghanistan, where former military personnel are at high risk of arrest, torture, and extrajudicial killings under the Taliban regime, Tawsili’s fear drove him to this desperate act.

The incident occurred on May 18 in Golshahr, Mashhad, and despite emergency efforts, Tawsili died from severe burns. Although officials withheld his identity, eyewitness accounts confirmed it was him.

Since the Taliban’s return in 2021, human rights organizations have reported ongoing persecution of former Afghan National Defense and Security Forces members despite amnesty promises. Afghan refugees in Iran and neighboring countries face increasing deportations and lack legal protections, leaving them vulnerable.

This tragedy highlights the urgent need for international humanitarian and legal support to protect Afghan refugees from further harm.