Afghanistan Peace Campaign
The UN warns of a growing humanitarian crisis as up to 3 million Afghan migrants are expected to return from Iran and Pakistan by year’s end.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has warned that by the end of this year, up to three million Afghan migrants could return from Iran and Pakistan—an exodus that could severely worsen the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
Arafat Jamal, UNHCR representative in Afghanistan, stated during an online press briefing from Kabul on Friday, July 11, that over 1.6 million Afghans—mostly from Iran—have already returned to the country in recent months.
He described the return process as “disorderly, degrading, and large-scale,” adding that many families are arriving in Afghanistan exhausted, distressed, and without basic resources. Their return is placing intense pressure on already struggling local communities.
According to UN data, more than 30,000 individuals are crossing daily into Afghanistan through the Islam Qala border point alone. This mass return has overwhelmed border services and reception facilities.
In response, UNHCR and partner organizations have launched emergency measures to provide clean water, health services, nutrition, and vaccinations to thousands of returnees each day. These efforts aim to reduce the immediate risks faced by vulnerable returnees.
The UN refugee agency has stressed that without proper planning and resources, the situation could spiral further out of control, pushing thousands of families into deeper poverty and insecurity. UNHCR has appealed for urgent humanitarian support to manage the crisis effectively.
As the return influx continues, the international community faces growing pressure to scale up humanitarian funding and logistical support. Without it, Afghanistan could face a catastrophic increase in displacement, malnutrition, and health crises, especially among women and children.
Stabilizing the situation will require not only short-term aid but also long-term reintegration efforts to help returnees rebuild their lives. The UN has called on donor countries and regional partners to act quickly to prevent a worsening tragedy.