Have Over 2,000 Afghan Refugees Been Deported from Iran and Pakistan in Just One Day?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable turn of events, over 2,000 Afghan refugees were repatriated from Iran and Pakistan in a single day. With winter approaching, many returnees face dire circumstances, lacking shelter and essential support. This article explores their challenges and the response from authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Over 2,000 Afghan refugees returned in one day.
- Refugees face significant challenges as winter approaches.
- Authorities are providing some humanitarian aid.
- Telecommunication support includes SIM cards for returnees.
- Returnees call for more assistance and shelter.
Kabul, Dec 28 (NationPress) A total of more than 2,000 Afghan refugees have been sent back to their home country from Iran and Pakistan in just one day, according to a Taliban official on Sunday.
As reported by the High Commission for Addressing Migrants Issues on X, Taliban deputy spokesperson Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat revealed that 668 families, totaling 2,553 individuals, returned to Afghanistan on Saturday, as reported by Pajhwok Afghan News.
Fitrat indicated that the Afghan returnees made their way back through several crossings, including Bahramcha in Helmand, Islam Qala in Herat, Pul-i-Abresham in Nimroz, Spin Boldak in Kandahar, and Torkham in Nangarhar.
He mentioned that 694 Afghan families, amounting to 4,310 people, were transported to their home regions upon their return, while 531 families received humanitarian assistance. Additionally, telecommunication companies provided 747 SIM cards to the returning refugees.
On the previous day, 2,370 Afghan migrants were deported from both Iran and Pakistan, he added.
Many Afghan migrants who recently returned from Pakistan expressed they are facing severe challenges as winter approaches. They highlighted issues such as a lack of shelter, the urgent need for winter aid, and difficulties in acquiring electronic ID cards (tazkira), according to local media.
Abdul Baqi, a returnee from Pakistan, shared: "Our primary concern is the absence of shelter. Upon returning, we are unsure where to go. We appeal to the Islamic Emirate to help us with our plight."
They reported that the available aid is insufficient and that they struggle to meet basic living necessities, as reported by Afghan media outlet Tolo News.
Another returnee, Abdul Bari, remarked: "It is well-known that many individuals are homeless, spending their days on the streets and roads." Abdul Malik, another returnee, mentioned that they are instructed to apply for electronic ID cards once they reach their provinces and urged the authorities to assist them in obtaining these ID cards.
Abdul Qahar, another refugee who returned from Pakistan, called on the Taliban government to provide necessary supplies such as tents and shelter.
Point of View
The situation of Afghan returnees is deeply concerning. The repatriation amidst winter raises pressing humanitarian issues that require immediate attention. It is crucial for the authorities to step up and provide necessary support, ensuring the dignity and safety of these individuals.
NationPress
30/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number of Afghan refugees repatriated recently?
Over 2,000 Afghan refugees were repatriated from Iran and Pakistan in a single day.
What challenges are Afghan returnees facing?
Many returnees are struggling with a lack of shelter, winter assistance, and obtaining electronic ID cards.
How are the authorities responding to the needs of returnees?
Authorities have provided some humanitarian assistance and distributed SIM cards to returning refugees.
