Tensions with Israel & U.S. Soar—But Iran Cracks Down on Afghan Refugees Instead

Amid rising tensions with Israel and the United States, Iran has accelerated the process of expelling Afghan refugees living within its borders. By July 6, nearly 700,000 Afghans have been ordered to leave the country. This includes those who have lived in Iran for decades and are now being forced to return to Afghanistan.

The UN and Afghan officials claim that these people are being forcibly deported, though the Iranian government is calling it a "voluntary return." In June alone, 230,000 Afghans returned, and since January, around 690,000 people have left Iran.

Temporary Transit Center Being Set Up in Herat

A temporary transit center is being set up in Herat for those expelled from Iran. There, they are being provided with food, water, and a place to sleep overnight. With help from UN agencies and NGOs, relief efforts are being made within limited resources. The Taliban government has assured that negotiations are ongoing to help Afghans recover property seized in Iran.

Women Facing a Clothing Crisis

Afghan women and youth returning from Iran are not only facing issues of employment and shelter, but also a clothing crisis. Those who dressed in accordance with Iranian fashion are now struggling with Afghanistan’s strict Taliban dress codes. In the hot weather, wearing Western or Iranian-style clothes has become even more difficult. As a result, the returnees are unable to fully adapt to the new country’s rules or completely let go of their old lifestyle.

The Numbers Are Alarming

So far this year, over 1 million Afghan citizens have returned from Pakistan and Iran. With Iran’s July 6 deadline, this number is expected to rise even further. Estimates suggest that as many as 4 million Afghans could be affected by Iran’s decision alone. The UN’s IMO agency has already clarified that it can only assist a limited number of people.