Since early June, Afghan refugees in Iran have been facing dire humanitarian conditions, with many being forced to return to their home country under circumstances that blatantly violate the principles of international humanitarian law. The situation has been exacerbated by the ongoing and severe crisis in Afghanistan, which has left the country in a state of turmoil and uncertainty.
According to recent reports, over one million Afghan refugees have been repatriated to their homeland in 2025 alone. This influx of people has put immense pressure on Afghanistan’s already limited resources, further exacerbating the multifaceted humanitarian crisis in the country.
The plight of Afghan refugees in Iran is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed urgently. These refugees, who have fled their homes in search of safety and a better life, are now facing harsh living conditions in Iran. Many of them are living in overcrowded and unsanitary refugee camps, with limited access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and healthcare.
Furthermore, the recent decision by the Iranian government to forcibly repatriate Afghan refugees has only added to their suffering. This is a clear violation of international humanitarian law, which prohibits the involuntary return of refugees to their country of origin if their lives or freedom would be at risk.
The repatriation process has been marred by reports of violence and abuse towards Afghan refugees, including confiscation of their belongings, forced separation from family members, and even physical assault. Such actions not only violate the basic human rights of these refugees but also go against the principles of compassion and empathy that should guide any humanitarian effort.
It is crucial for the international community to take immediate action to address the plight of Afghan refugees in Iran. The situation demands a coordinated and comprehensive response to provide these refugees with the necessary support and protection they need.
First and foremost, the Iranian government must put an end to the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees and ensure that their rights are respected. The government should also work with international organizations and humanitarian agencies to improve the living conditions in refugee camps and provide access to essential services.
Moreover, the international community must step up its efforts to support Afghanistan in its journey towards peace and stability. This includes providing humanitarian aid and support to the country to alleviate the suffering of its people. It is also essential to address the root causes of the crisis in Afghanistan, such as poverty, conflict, and political instability, to prevent further displacement of its people.
In addition, neighboring countries, including Iran, must uphold their obligations under international law and provide protection and assistance to Afghan refugees. This includes allowing them to access education and employment opportunities, which will not only benefit the refugees but also contribute to the economy of the host country.
The plight of Afghan refugees in Iran is a humanitarian crisis that requires urgent attention and action. It is a collective responsibility of the international community to ensure that these refugees are treated with dignity and respect, and their rights are protected.
The resilience and strength of Afghan refugees in the face of such adversity is a testament to their courage and determination. They deserve our support and solidarity in these challenging times. Let us come together and work towards a brighter future for these refugees and the people of Afghanistan as a whole.
