Iran Repatriates Nearly 1.2 Million Undocumented Afghans Since March
In a significant move to address the issue of undocumented migrants, Iran has repatriated nearly 1.2 million Afghans since March 21, according to the country’s Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni. The minister revealed this information during a press conference in the northeastern city of Mashhad, where he also highlighted that more than 70% of these repatriations were voluntary.
The majority of the returns took place through the border between Iran’s Khorasan Razavi Province and Afghanistan’s Herat Province. This development comes as Iranian authorities intensify efforts to encourage undocumented foreigners to return home.
Momeni estimated that over 6 million Afghans are currently living in Iran, with plans to repatriate an additional 800,000 undocumented individuals by the end of the current Iranian year on March 20, 2026. The minister emphasized the importance of adhering to legal procedures and preserving the dignity of migrants during the deportation process.
Iran’s efforts to address the issue of undocumented migrants reflect its commitment to maintaining a stable and secure environment for both its citizens and foreign residents. The country’s recent initiatives aim to encourage undocumented foreigners to return home, thereby reducing the risk of human trafficking, exploitation, and other social issues.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community will be watching closely to see how Iran’s efforts impact the lives of undocumented migrants and the regional dynamics. With millions of Afghans residing in Iran, the country’s approach to addressing this issue will have significant implications for regional stability and cooperation.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safe and dignified repatriation of undocumented migrants, while also promoting a secure and stable environment for all individuals residing in Iran.
