Junbish Sada-e Zanan, an Afghan women’s rights advocacy group, has called on Iran to cease its deportation of Afghan migrants, warning that forced returns could pose a serious threat to their safety under Taliban rule.
In a statement, the group emphasized that many Afghan migrants left their country following the Taliban’s resurgence, citing political and social reasons, or their former roles in military or government positions. “Their forced return to Afghanistan, which continues to grapple with severe security and humanitarian challenges, will have grave consequences,” the statement read.
Junbish Sada-e Zanan also urged the United Nations to intervene, asking the organization to engage with Iranian authorities to halt the deportations and allow Afghan migrants to live in safety and dignity. The group called for the UN to expedite asylum processing for those who face life-threatening risks if returned to Afghanistan, especially women and girls who may be particularly vulnerable.
The statement highlighted the international community’s responsibility to protect Afghan migrants, who are fleeing a situation where the Taliban’s strict policies have prompted thousands to leave the country daily, often through dangerous and illegal routes.