Archive · 7 Aug 2025
Afghans Expelled from Iran Face Hardships Upon Return
Iran has been sending back many Afghan people.
They are saying it's because they didn't have the right papers, and some were leaving on their own.
But, lots of people are being forced to leave, and it's causing problems.
Some people had to stop their studies or work.
They are returning to Afghanistan, where it's hard to find jobs or a safe place to live, especially for women who are not allowed to work or travel without a male guardian.
Iran has expelled nearly 700,000 Afghans since June amid rising tensions.
Many returnees, including women, face an uncertain future in Afghanistan.
Accusations of Afghan nationals spying for Israel triggered increased deportations.
Iranian officials state most deportations were voluntary and due to documentation issues.
Returning Afghans face economic hardship, lack of opportunities, and family separation.
- Who
- Afghan refugees and the Iranian government.
- What
- Expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees from Iran.
- When
- Since June, with increased deportations following a conflict between Iran and Israel.
- Where
- Iran and Afghanistan, particularly the border crossing at Islam Qala.
- Why
- Iranian authorities cited documentation issues, security concerns, and resource constraints.
Afghan Refugees
Iranian Government
Documentation
Afghan Refugees
Many refugees held proper documentation and had established lives in Iran.
Iranian Government
Iranian officials state most deportees were undocumented.
Treatment
Afghan Refugees
Refugees describe mistreatment and family separation during the expulsions.
Iranian Government
Iranian officials deny systemic abuse, but admit some unhappy with treatment.
- Total Expulsions (approx.)
- Nearly 700,000
- Trigger for Expulsions
- War with Israel
- Main Reason Given by Iran
- Lack of Documentation
- Refugee Agency
- UNHCR
- Returnees from Iran say
- discrimination and difficulty
