Iran has transferred 149 Afghan inmates to the Taliban amid worsening conditions for Afghan refugees, who are facing increased mistreatment and restrictions. Reports indicate significant rises in executions of Afghan nationals within Iran, alongside challenges in accessing essential services for undocumented migrants. Rights advocates express growing concerns regarding the safety and treatment of Afghan refugees.
On March 20, media outlets reported that Iran has forcibly transferred 149 Afghan inmates to the Taliban to serve the remainder of their sentences amid ongoing challenges for Afghan refugees in the country. Askar Jalalian, Iran’s Deputy Minister of Justice for Human Rights and International Affairs, confirmed the transfer but the Taliban has not disclosed the fate of these prisoners or whether they will complete their sentences under its regime.
The total number of Afghan prisoners currently detained in Iran is unclear. Nevertheless, rights organizations indicate that a substantial number are incarcerated there. In a disturbing report by the Iran Human Rights Organization, it was noted that 80 Afghan prisoners were executed in Iran in 2024, a significant increase compared to the previous year.
Afghan refugees in Iran continue to face considerable hardships due to restrictive policies imposed by the Iranian government. Recently, Nader Yarahmadi of Iran’s Ministry of Interior announced that undocumented Afghan migrants would be denied access to healthcare, education, and other essential services starting March 21, 2025. Reports suggest a rising atmosphere of anti-migrant sentiment leading to the arbitrary arrest and deportation of Afghan migrants, even those with valid documentation.
Numerous incidents of harassment and abuse of Afghan refugees by Iranian officials have been reported, with videos circulating on social media revealing acts of humiliation alongside anti-Afghan slogans. Furthermore, the Iranian government has enacted restrictions that severely inhibit Afghan refugees from obtaining stable employment.
Fazl-ur-Rahman Oria, an Afghan political analyst, condemned the increasing executions of Afghan nationals in Iran as intolerable and a violation of international conventions. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees emphasizes that refugees—individuals fleeing conflict or persecution—should be protected by international law and should not be forcibly returned to dangerous situations.
In conclusion, the transfer of Afghan inmates to the Taliban and the reported mistreatment of Afghan refugees in Iran highlight the growing humanitarian concerns in the region. The significant increase in executions and restrictions placed on Afghan migrants signifies an urgent need for international intervention and advocacy to protect the rights of refugees and uphold humanitarian standards. The situation continues to deteriorate, raising alarms among human rights organizations and advocates globally.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
