Afghan migrants in Iran say that their living conditions are worsening, marked by harsh treatment, humiliation, and increasing restrictions that have become part of daily life.
Footage from the Varamin camp near Tehran, obtained by Amu, show Iranian police subjecting Afghan migrants to both verbal abuse and physical violence.
“We were tortured, denied food and water, and had our phones confiscated to prevent communication,” said one migrant. Another described enduring repeated beatings, adding, “The conditions are unbearable.”
Iran’s Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, has reiterated the government’s hardline stance on deportations, underscoring that the regulation of unauthorized migrants remains a top priority. “Organizing unauthorized foreign nationals is one of our top priorities,” Momeni said. “Strengthening and securing the borders is part of our agenda, and we are prioritizing the regulation of unauthorized migrants with international support.”
Human rights activists have condemned Iran’s treatment of Afghan migrants, describing it as inhumane and in violation of international standards. Khadema Afzali, a human rights advocate, said, “The situation of Afghan migrants in Iran is deeply concerning. In addition to being deprived of their fundamental rights, they are subjected to violent and abusive treatment. We call on international organizations to take immediate action to address these conditions.”
Iran, which shares a long border with Afghanistan, has recently intensified its policies against Afghan migrants, implementing forced deportations, physical mistreatment, and social and healthcare restrictions.
Reports emerged nearly three weeks ago of an attack on Afghan migrants in Kalgan, Iran, which the Taliban claim was carried out by Iranian border guards. The incident reportedly left two dead and 34 injured.
These events have amplified international concern over the plight of Afghan migrants in Iran, sparking calls for urgent intervention and heightened support.
