Why Were Over 5,500 Afghan Refugees Repatriated from Iran and Pakistan in Just One Day?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, over 5,500 Afghan refugees were forcibly repatriated from Iran and Pakistan in just one day. Amidst growing humanitarian concerns, returnees plead for support as winter approaches. The Taliban faces immense pressure to provide assistance and resources to those in need.
Key Takeaways
- Over 5,500 Afghan refugees returned in one day.
- Returnees face urgent needs for shelter and supplies.
- The Taliban has pledged support for returning refugees.
- Telecommunications companies provided SIM cards to returnees.
- Humanitarian organizations are urged to assist.
Kabul, Dec 15 (NationPress) Over 5,500 Afghan refugees were forcibly sent back from Iran and Pakistan in a single day, as reported by a Taliban official on Monday.
According to a report shared on X by the High Commission for Addressing Migrants’ Issues, Taliban deputy spokesperson Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat stated that 1,014 families, totaling 5,580 individuals, returned to Afghanistan on Sunday, as per Pajhwok Afghan News.
The returnees made their way back through various crossings, including Islam Qala in Herat, Bahramcha in Helmand, Pul-i-Abresham in Nimroz, Torkham in Nangarhar, and Spin Boldak in Kandahar. Fitrat also mentioned that 1,083 Afghan families, amounting to 5,924 people, who returned recently, have been relocated to their respective areas, while 900 families received humanitarian aid.
Additionally, telecommunications providers issued 1,119 SIM cards to the returning Afghan refugees.
Fitrat disclosed that 4,991 Afghan migrants were forcibly deported from Iran and Pakistan on Saturday.
Recently returned refugees residing in designated camps have urged the Taliban to assist them with shelter, job opportunities, and essential supplies as winter approaches.
One Afghan returnee, Aynuddin, emphasized, "We implore the Islamic Emirate to acknowledge our plight. We are unwell and unable to work in this cold. We require assistance," as reported by Tolo News.
Another returnee, Khan Mohammad, who returned from Pakistan after 40 years, expressed hope for support from the Taliban to survive the winter, stating, "After that, we will make efforts to rebuild our lives."
Mohammad Awaz, a father of 10, voiced his concerns, saying, "I'm anxious that my children may fall ill this winter. We ask the Islamic Emirate for necessary provisions."
Experts have remarked that both the government and humanitarian organizations should continue to support the Afghan refugees who have recently returned.
This plea from returnees and analysts arises amidst the ongoing forced deportations of Afghan refugees from neighboring countries. The Taliban has continually assured that it will aid Afghan refugees and has called upon host nations to cease forced repatriations.
Point of View
It's crucial to emphasize the humanitarian crisis unfolding as over 5,500 Afghan refugees are forcibly repatriated in a single day. The returnees face significant challenges as they reintegrate into society, especially with winter approaching. It's imperative for the Taliban and aid organizations to respond effectively to these pressing needs.
NationPress
15/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Afghan refugees were repatriated?
Over 5,500 Afghan refugees were repatriated from Iran and Pakistan in one day.
What regions did the refugees return from?
The refugees returned from Iran and Pakistan.
What support are returnees seeking?
Returnees are seeking shelter, employment opportunities, and essential supplies.
What crossings did the refugees use?
They used crossings including Islam Qala, Bahramcha, Pul-i-Abresham, Torkham, and Spin Boldak.
Who reported the repatriation of refugees?
The repatriation was reported by the Taliban's deputy spokesperson Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat.
