Shocking Surge: Over 1 Million Afghans Deported in Just 4 Months!
In recent developments, Iranian authorities have reported a significant increase in the return of illegal Afghan refugees. Since the start of the current Iranian year on March 21, an estimated 1.1 million illegal Afghan refugees have returned to Afghanistan, with the majority doing so voluntarily. This article explores the implications of these actions and the services being provided to both legal and illegal refugees in Iran.
Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni has announced that of the total number of Afghan refugees sent back, approximately 70% have left voluntarily. This significant movement underscores the ongoing situation regarding undocumented migrants in the country. According to the Mehr news agency, Police spokesman General Saeed Montazer-al-Mahdi noted that the number of undocumented Afghans deported has risen by 4.5% compared to last year.
The Iranian police have also reported that they successfully prevented around 2,500 refugees from entering the country illegally. General Montazer-al-Mahdi emphasized that foreign nationals are treated with both decisiveness and dignity. In expressing the government’s stance, Momeni clarified that Iran does not intend to deport documented and authorized refugees, stating, “Iran is not an anti-immigrant country, as it is hosting six million foreign nationals.”
He further elaborated, “We are only deporting the two million Afghans who are illegally residing in Iran. These individuals have contributed to the nation’s production and economy. However, based on regulations, unauthorized refugees must leave the country. If they wish to remain here, they must follow legal procedures.”
According to Nader Yar-Ahmadi, the head of the National Organization for Migration, there has been no alteration in the residency status or services provided to documented Afghans. In fact, as illegal nationals depart, those who are documented are expected to benefit from increased services. Yar-Ahmadi highlighted the challenges that illegal migrants pose, stating, “Their presence negatively impacts the economy, social, and security sectors.”
Health Services for Refugees
The Iranian Ministry of Health has detailed a comprehensive range of services available to refugees, particularly in provinces such as eastern South Khorasan, northeastern Khorasan Razavi, and southeastern Sistan-Baluchestan. These services include:
- Establishment of health camps
- Screening for communicable diseases
- Provision of safe water and sanitation
The Ministry has set up both permanent and temporary camps to facilitate medical screenings and treatments. These camps offer various medical services, including:
- Injections and serum therapy
- Treatment for acute patients
In addition to these services, the health ministry is focusing on:
- Extensive screening for communicable diseases and epidemic risk management
- Ongoing water and food sampling
- Disinfection of drinking water
To improve health conditions for refugees, the ministry is also working on enhancing infrastructure, access to safe drinking water, and sanitation facilities. Environmental hygiene measures, such as proper management of infectious waste, are part of the ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of diseases like Malaria and Cholera (El Tor).
The health ministry has successfully managed referrals, with an average of over 5,000 individuals accessing health services during peak times. They have also improved the capacities of the camps by enhancing human resources, equipment, and logistical support to ensure the immediate provision of essential items like medicine, disinfectants, and personal protective equipment.
As Iran continues to navigate the complex dynamics of refugee management, the focus remains on balancing humanitarian assistance with regulatory compliance. The efforts to provide comprehensive health services and support for refugees highlight Iran’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration while ensuring the welfare of those who seek refuge within its borders.
In summary, the Iranian government is taking steps to address the issue of illegal Afghan refugees while simultaneously providing critical health services to those who are legally residing in the country. As these policies evolve, the impact on both the Afghan refugee community and the Iranian economy will continue to be closely monitored.
