Tehran – A milestone under the bilateral agreement allowed 130 Iranian prisoners to be deported from Iraq, allowing the remaining sentences to be brought closer to their homes.
The transfer, made through Mehran Border Crossing, illustrates a pivotal step in the prisoner exchange between Iran and Iraq.
Asgal Jalarian, Deputy Minister of Justice for Human Rights and International Affairs and Head of the Prisoner Relocation Committee, announced the successful operation on Wednesday.
“This not only supports prisoners’ rehabilitation and social reintegration, but also reduces the economic and emotional burden on families, but also “reducing the difficulties facing citizens is a priority.”
Emphasizing the government’s focus on humanitarian concerns, he added, “We aim to promote rehabilitation and reintegration of Iranian prisoners through international agreements.”
Jallalian noted that Iran has signed relocation protocols from 29 countries, of which 23 are currently in operation.
Officials say nearly 300 prisoners have returned since the start of this year, with plans to increase those numbers next year.
The Deputy Minister emphasized ongoing efforts to streamline the process, including diplomatic negotiations and legal cooperation. “We expect even higher numbers in 2026,” he said, hinting at recent measures aimed at strengthening international legal cooperation.
This successful transfer highlights the improvements in relations between Iran and Iraq and shows mutual willingness to cooperate on humanitarian issues.
Going forward, Iran’s Ministry of Justice expects an increase in such transfers focused on diplomatic efforts and human rights.
“Our goal is to bring citizens homes, support rehabilitation and strengthen the ties that connect the community,” Jalarian concluded.