Why Were Over 6000 Afghan Refugees Forcibly Deported from Pakistan and Iran in a Single Day?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, over 6,000 Afghan refugees faced forced repatriation from Pakistan and Iran in one day. This article delves into the challenges these returnees encounter, including shelter shortages and urgent needs for assistance as winter approaches, highlighting the humanitarian crisis at hand.
Key Takeaways
- Over 6,000 Afghan refugees forcibly returned in one day.
- Returnees face severe winter challenges, including lack of shelter.
- Humanitarian assistance remains insufficient for those in need.
- Telecommunication companies provided SIM cards to deported refugees.
- Urgent action is required to address the crisis.
Kabul, Nov 30 (NationPress) Over 6,000 Afghan refugees have been forcibly returned from Pakistan and Iran in just one day, according to a Taliban official reported by local media on Sunday.
Taliban Deputy Spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat shared the findings from the High Commission for Addressing Migrants' Issues on X, highlighting that 1,188 families, totaling 6,553 individuals, made their way back to Afghanistan on Saturday.
The returnees crossed into Afghanistan via several points: Torkham in Nangarhar, Pul-i-Abresham in Nimroz, Spin Boldak in Kandahar, Bahramcha in Helmand, and Islam Qala in Herat, as reported by Pajhwok Afghan News.
Fitrat noted that 1,260 families, amounting to 8,102 people, were assisted in reaching their homes, while 780 families received humanitarian aid.
Moreover, telecommunication companies provided 1,294 SIM cards to Afghan refugees who were deported from Iran and Pakistan.
On the previous Friday, nearly 1,332 Afghan refugees were also forcibly repatriated from these countries.
Earlier this week, some Afghan migrants returning from Pakistan expressed the serious challenges they face as winter approaches. They voiced concerns regarding insufficient shelter, the urgent need for winter aid, and difficulties in obtaining electronic ID cards (tazkira), as reported by local media on Monday.
One returnee, Abdul Baqi, shared, "Our primary issue is the lack of shelter. Upon returning, we are unsure of where to go. We urge the Islamic Emirate to assist us in resolving this situation."
Many indicated that available aid is not enough and they struggle to fulfill their basic living requirements, as noted by Afghan media outlet Tolo News.
Abdul Bari, another returnee, stated, "It is widely known that many are homeless, spending their days on the streets and beside the roads." Abdul Malik, another returnee, mentioned that they are instructed to apply for electronic ID cards upon reaching their provinces and called upon authorities to help them obtain these cards.
Abdul Qahar, yet another refugee returning from Pakistan, implored the Taliban government to furnish them with essential items such as tents and proper shelter.
Point of View
It is imperative to emphasize the grave humanitarian concerns stemming from the forced deportation of Afghan refugees. The situation necessitates immediate attention from both national and international bodies to address the needs of these vulnerable individuals, ensuring their safety and well-being as they reintegrate into society.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Afghan refugees were deported?
Over 6,000 Afghan refugees were forcibly repatriated from Pakistan and Iran in a single day.
What challenges do returnees face?
Returnees are facing significant challenges, including lack of shelter and urgent needs for winter assistance.
What assistance is being provided to returnees?
Some returnees received humanitarian aid and SIM cards from telecommunication companies.
Where did the refugees return to Afghanistan?
Refugees returned through several crossings, including Torkham, Spin Boldak, and Islam Qala.
What are the concerns raised by returnees?
Returnees have voiced concerns about inadequate aid and difficulties obtaining electronic ID cards.
