Why Did Over 7000 Afghan Refugees Return Home from Pakistan and Iran in One Day?
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Synopsis
In a staggering turn of events, over 7,000 Afghan refugees were forcibly deported from Pakistan and Iran in a single day. This report sheds light on the challenges faced by these individuals and the ongoing crackdown in Pakistan, raising questions about their future and well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Over 7,000 Afghan refugees were forcibly returned in one day.
- Refugees face significant challenges in Pakistan.
- Assistance provided included SIM cards and help with transportation.
- Concerns over the humanitarian situation are rising.
- Many refugees are enduring harsh conditions in detention centers.
Kabul, Nov 14 (NationPress) Approximately 7,061 Afghan refugees were forcibly returned to Afghanistan from both Pakistan and Iran on Thursday, as reported by the High Commission for Addressing Refugee Affairs in Afghanistan.
According to a daily operational report shared on X, Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat, Afghanistan's Deputy Spokesperson, revealed that on Thursday, 1,353 Afghan families, totaling 7,061 individuals, made their way back from Iran and Pakistan, as reported by Pajhwok Afghan News.
Fitrat noted that these refugees returned through various border points including Spin Boldak in Kandahar, Bahramcha in Helmand, Islam Qala in Herat, Pul-i-Abresham in Nimroz, and Torkham in Nangarhar.
He also mentioned that aid was provided to 1,436 families who returned, while 3,448 returnee families, comprising 27,223 individuals, were transported to their respective homes.
Furthermore, Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat indicated that telecommunication companies distributed 1,338 SIM cards to the returning refugees.
On the previous day, 10,637 Afghan refugees were forcibly sent back from Iran and Pakistan.
Recently, Afghan refugees expressed their worries regarding rising challenges and fears due to the intensified crackdown in Pakistan. They reported that the Pakistani police had made announcements in some mosques, warning that anyone assisting refugees, such as by renting homes or shops, would be treated as criminals.
A prominent Afghan refugee in Pakistan, Atiqullah Mansoor, stated, "Many Afghan refugees, including children, women, and the elderly, have been detained in Pakistani centers for over 15 days, enduring severe conditions," as cited by the notable media outlet TOLO News.
Additionally, numerous refugees claimed that the Pakistani government has escalated arrests and forced deportations while demolishing shelters. They called on the Pakistani government to halt the destruction of their homes and permit them to remain in Pakistan throughout the winter.
A refugee in Pakistan stated, "Winter has already begun, and many remaining homes of Afghan refugees have been destroyed. We urge the Pakistani government to cease demolishing the rest of our residences, as otherwise, refugees will be left homeless and without options. Furthermore, the government has warned locals against renting homes to Afghan refugees, threatening them with legal repercussions."
Point of View
It is vital to underscore the humanitarian crisis unfolding with the return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran. The situation calls for urgent attention to the rights and welfare of those affected, as the challenges they face are considerable and demand a compassionate response.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the return of Afghan refugees?
The return of Afghan refugees was primarily due to a crackdown by the Pakistani authorities, resulting in forced deportations.
How many refugees returned on Thursday?
On Thursday, approximately 7,061 Afghan refugees returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan and Iran.
What assistance did returning refugees receive?
Returning refugees received assistance including SIM cards and transportation to their respective areas.
What are the conditions like for refugees in Pakistan?
Many refugees have reported harsh living conditions in detention centers and facing threats of eviction.
What are the implications of the Pakistani government's actions?
The Pakistani government's actions pose significant humanitarian challenges, leaving many refugees without shelter and support.
