How Many Afghan Migrants Have Died from Freezing Conditions at the Iran Border?
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Synopsis
As harsh winter conditions grip the border regions, a shocking number of Afghan migrants have lost their lives while attempting to cross into Iran. With reports of high death tolls and ongoing perilous journeys, this tragedy highlights the desperate situation faced by many. Read on for a detailed account of this heartbreaking crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Dozens of Afghan migrants have died while crossing into Iran.
- Severe winter conditions are the primary cause of death.
- Iranian authorities have intensified crackdowns on undocumented migrants.
- Many families are searching for missing loved ones.
- The situation highlights the dire need for humanitarian assistance.
Kabul, Dec 20 (NationPress) Numerous Afghan migrants have tragically lost their lives in recent days while trying to illegally enter Iran through unapproved border routes in western Afghanistan, as reported by local media on Saturday amid harsh winter weather conditions.
According to reports from western Afghanistan, the prominent news outlet 'Iran International' stated that up to 40 Afghan migrants are believed to have perished after crossing into Iran during a severe cold wave.
The report highlighted that the remains of at least 15 migrants were transported to the districts of Kohsan and Adraskan after their deaths occurred within Iranian territory.
In a related note, Afghanistan International, affiliated with Iran International, communicated with an Afghan migrant who visited morgues and cemeteries within Taybad hospital in Iran's Razavi Khorasan province. The source confirmed that more than 40 Afghan migrants had unfortunately died.
Meanwhile, Khaama Press Agency—Afghanistan's prominent news source—cited a spokesperson for the Taliban governor in Herat, validating that three Afghan individuals had died near the Kahsan border while attempting to enter Iran through illegal means.
According to local residents and community sources, a higher death toll has been reported, with at least 15 bodies being moved to districts in Kahsan and Adraskan due to migrants being exposed to the severe cold along the border. Reports also indicate that some migrants remain unaccounted for.
Eyewitnesses noted that hundreds of Afghans have been gravitating towards the Iran border, seeking to cross through smuggling routes near Islam Qala and Taybad, as legitimate migration options are scarce. The journey has become perilous due to heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and treacherous terrain.
Additionally, Amu TV, another leading media outlet, reported on Saturday that Iranian law enforcement apprehended 437 undocumented Afghan migrants in the southeastern city of Zahedan as part of a recent security operation.
Iranian officials refer to these undocumented individuals as “unauthorized foreign nationals”.
Hamid Nouri, the police commander of Zahedan, announced at a press conference that a total of 437 undocumented foreign nationals were detained during operations over the past week. These operations also resulted in the arrest of 135 suspected thieves, 472 drug users, and 54 alleged low-level drug dealers.
Point of View
Our commitment lies with the nation and its people. The recent tragic fatalities of Afghan migrants at the Iran border underscore the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and international attention to this escalating crisis. We must strive for solutions that prioritize human dignity and safety.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the deaths of Afghan migrants at the Iran border?
The deaths were primarily caused by severe cold weather, as many migrants attempted to cross into Iran through unofficial routes.
How many Afghan migrants are reported to have died?
Reports indicate that over 40 Afghan migrants have died in recent days due to freezing conditions.
What actions have been taken by Iranian authorities?
Iranian police have arrested 437 undocumented Afghan migrants in Zahedan as part of a security crackdown.
Why are Afghan migrants risking their lives to cross the border?
Many Afghans are seeking better opportunities and are resorting to illegal crossings due to limited legal migration options.
What are the conditions like along the Iran-Afghanistan border?
The conditions are extremely dangerous, with heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and rugged terrain complicating the journey.
