Afghan deportations from Iran have reached alarming levels, according to Taliban officials. Abdul Salam Hanafi, the Taliban’s deputy prime minister for administrative affairs, revealed that between 30,000 and 35,000 Afghan migrants are being forcibly sent back every day. These removals are taking place through the Islam Qala border crossing.
Hanafi shared this during a meeting in Kabul with Filippo Grandi, the United Nations high commissioner for refugees. He described the mass expulsions as a serious humanitarian challenge. Hanafi urged the UN refugee agency and other aid organisations to support the long-term resettlement and reintegration of returnees.
Taliban representatives reported that Grandi recognised the scale of the Afghan deportations. They said he appreciated how the Taliban had managed the crisis. His trip to Kabul came at a time of increasing removals from both Iran and Pakistan.
During the meeting, Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi also raised concerns. He explained that Afghan citizens face mounting difficulties and need urgent assistance from international bodies. He appealed for more time for deportees to clear debts and settle outstanding dues before their return.
Reports from Taliban authorities highlighted that many Afghans were sent back from Iran without recovering unpaid wages or rental deposits. Families were often not allowed to bring their personal belongings, leaving them in further distress.
In a separate session with Taliban refugee minister Abdul Kabir, Grandi announced new plans to hold a trilateral meeting. The talks will involve Iran, Pakistan, and the UN to address the crisis of mass repatriations. He also confirmed his upcoming visit to Iran to review the impact of these deportations and evaluate future support.
