Iran is detaining even more Afghan refugees, making their situation even more difficult.

In a recent report on Sunday, Iranian state media revealed that Iran has initiated a new crackdown on Afghan migrants in the province of Sistan and Baluchestan, citing security concerns. According to the state-run news agency, ISNA, the police commander of Chabahar, Mohammad Shabik, announced the detention of 123 Afghan nationals in the port city of Iran. In addition, another 152 Afghan migrants were arrested in the district of Hirmand, located near the Afghan border.

This is not the first time that Afghan refugees in Iran have faced such harsh treatment. Leading Afghan media outlet Amu TV has reported numerous instances of mistreatment and challenges faced by Afghan refugees due to the restrictions imposed by the Iranian government. Last year, there were reports of Afghan migrants being humiliated and abused by Iranian police officials and citizens. Videos circulating on social media showed alarming scenes of harassment and anti-Afghan sentiments in Iran. The Iranian government's restrictions on Afghan refugees have also made it difficult for them to earn a stable income.

A refugee from Afghanistan, who currently resides in Iran, shared his experience saying, "There is no discrimination among people – everyone dislikes Afghan migrants. And when the police arrest them, they are beaten severely." According to a report by the Iran Human Rights Organization, the number of Afghan prisoners executed in Iran in 2024 has tripled since 2023, with a shocking number of 80 executions reported.

The situation has become unbearable for the people of Afghanistan, who have already endured over 40 years of conflict, natural disasters, poverty, food insecurity, and now, the COVID-19 pandemic. The recent change in government authorities has only added to their struggles. The events leading up to the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021 have only intensified the instability, resulting in displacement of millions.

According to a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, there are currently 10.9 million Afghans displaced globally, with most remaining within their country or seeking refuge in neighbouring countries due to conflict, violence, and poverty. Leading Afghan media outlet TOLO news quoted Fazl-ur-Rahman Oria, an Afghan political analyst, stating, "Unfortunately, the execution of defenceless and oppressed Afghans in Iran is increasing. This is intolerable for the people of Afghanistan and also violates international conventions and standards." The situation for Afghan refugees in Iran remains dire, and urgent action is needed to address their plight.

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