Iran Deports Over 88,000 Afghan Migrants in One Week, IOM Warns of Humanitarian Crisis

Iran Deports Over 88,000 Afghan Migrants in One Week, IOM Warns of Humanitarian Crisis
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More than 88,000 undocumented Afghan migrants were deported from Iran to Afghanistan in just one week, raising alarm over worsening humanitarian needs, according to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Between June 18 and June 26, a total of 88,308 Afghans were returned, with 55% forcibly deported and 64% travelling as families — highlighting the severe impact on women and children.

The IOM said only 11% of returnees received any humanitarian support due to critical funding shortfalls, urging immediate international assistance to address basic needs. The figure marks a sharp increase from the previous week, when around 33,000 Afghans were sent back.

Combined with returns from Pakistan, the total number of Afghan returnees so far in 2025 has exceeded 1.2 million, intensifying what the UN describes as an escalating humanitarian crisis. Over half of Afghanistan’s population now depends on aid.

Both the IOM and the UN Refugee Agency warn that many returnees face dire conditions in overcrowded border areas lacking health services and protection. Women and girls are especially at risk, returning to a country where their basic rights remain severely restricted under Taliban rule. UNHCR reports its Afghanistan response is just 23% funded.