Iran is undertaking one of the largest mass deportations in recent history, targeting 4 million undocumented Afghans for expulsion. More than 1.1 million have already been deported in 2025, half of them in just the past five weeks. This crackdown comes amid accusations from Tehran that Afghans pose security risks, further destabilizing Afghanistan as it grapples with humanitarian and political crises under Taliban rule.

Mass Expulsions Escalate Amid Security Claims

Iranian authorities have intensified deportations following recent conflicts with Israel, blaming Afghan migrants for espionage and other security threats. State media broadcast confessions from alleged Afghan spies accused of aiding Israel. “National security is a priority,” said government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani. Tehran claims the expulsions are necessary, despite many Afghans having lived in Iran since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979One of history’s bigges….

On some days, more than 40,000 people have been forced to the border within hours. Conditions at border crossings are dire, with temperatures hitting 50°C and chaotic scenes of families stranded without food, water, or shelter.

Humanitarian Crisis Grows as Aid Stretched Thin

Aid groups report severe strain on resources as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) says only 10% of those in need are receiving help. Between June 1 and July 9 alone, over 546,000 Afghans were deported. Camps are overwhelmed, and many returnees face immediate danger from the Taliban, especially women activists and former security personnel.

UN human rights officials condemned the expulsions, warning of serious risks to those forced back to Afghanistan. “It is unconscionable to force Afghans back to a country where women and girls are persecuted and violence is rampant,” said Richard Bennett, UN special rapporteur.

Pakistan Also Escalates Deportations

Pakistan, which hosts another 4 million Afghans, has also intensified deportations, expelling over 1.3 million in the past year. As in Iran, many of the deportees had lived in Pakistan for decades. Among them are girls and women who now face renewed threats of forced marriage and repression under the Taliban.

Stories like that of 18-year-old Yasemine Khodadi—hiding in Islamabad with her family to avoid arrest—highlight the personal toll of these mass deportations. Aid efforts are hampered further by U.S. restrictions on refugee admissions, following President Trump’s suspension of such programs.