At least 332 migrant families returned to Afghanistan last week, according to data released by the Taliban-run media. The figures indicate that 220 families returned from Iran, while 112 came from Pakistan.
Some of the migrants were deported, while others returned voluntarily.
The data, however, does not account for the final three days of the week, leaving the total number of returns potentially higher. Of those coming back from Pakistan, 51 families crossed into Afghanistan through the Torkham border, while 61 families entered via Spin Boldak. Meanwhile, 82 families returning from Iran used the Silk Road route, and 138 others entered through the Islam Qala port.
Both Iran and Pakistan have intensified pressure on Afghan migrants in recent months. Pakistani authorities have mandated that Afghan nationals residing in the capital obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) in addition to other documentation, complicating their legal status. Similarly, Iranian officials have warned employers against hiring Afghan migrants, threatening legal repercussions for violations.
