Caption:
Systematic and Inhumane Deportation of Afghan Migrants from Iran:In recent weeks, the government of Iran has launched a widespread and forceful deportation campaign targeting Afghan migrants, in clear violation of human rights and international law. Thousands of Afghans, many of whom have lived in Iran for years, have been expelled without prior notice, without receiving their wages or housing deposits, and in some cases, without being allowed to collect their personal belongings.
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Statistical Overview of the Deportations
Based on field observations and local authority reports:
Islam Qala Border (Herat): Between 3,500 to 4,800 people are deported daily.
Milak Border (Nimruz): Approximately 2,200 to 3,000 people are returned every day.
Estimated total in the past month: Over 200,000 individuals have been deported in the last 30 to 45 days.
These deportees include women, children, seasonal workers, the elderly, and even the sick — many of whom had no history of violations or legal infractions in Iran.
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Inhumane and Unlawful Practices
Deported individuals have reported numerous disturbing and unlawful actions by Iranian authorities:
Passport Destruction: Iranian officers have reportedly torn up valid passports and residency documents belonging to Afghan migrants — a blatant violation of international law.
Unpaid Wages and Rent Deposits: Many Afghan laborers were working in construction or factories for months without being paid. Additionally, landlords refused to return rental deposits, leaving families penniless upon return.
Arbitrary Arrests: Many migrants were arrested suddenly at home or work without prior warning or the chance to contact their families. They were taken to temporary detention centers and then deported without due process.
Dire Humanitarian Conditions at the Borders
At both Islam Qala (Herat) and Milak (Nimruz) border crossings, the deported face critical humanitarian challenges:
Extreme Heat: With temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F), and no proper shelters or cooling systems, children and the elderly are suffering from heatstroke, dehydration, and skin diseases.
Lack of Basic Supplies: Most returnees arrive barefoot, without clean clothes, food, or water. Some wait up to 12 hours in the open sun for registration and processing.
Unaccompanied Minors: Several children have crossed the border alone, with no knowledge of their parents’ whereabouts, highlighting the chaos and trauma caused by the deportations.
Conclusion
The Iranian government's recent actions against Afghan migrants represent a severe humanitarian and legal crisis. The destruction of passports, denial of due wages, forced deportations, and degrading treatment of families who contributed to Iran’s economy for years, are gross violations of dignity and international norms. The global community must not remain silent in the face of this injustice.
Prepared by: Sayed Habib Bidell
Location: Islam Qala & Nimruz Border Crossings | Date: July 2025
