The UN’s permanent representative of Amir Saeed Iravani says Iran has evacuated millions of Afghans, making it even bigger after the US’s reckless withdrawal in 2021.
Amir Saeid Iravani made his remarks on Monday before the UN Security Council explained the “situation in Afghanistan.”
Iran’s policies against Afghan refugees and immigration remain rooted in humanitarian principles, adding that for more than 40 years, Iran has been carrying a significant burden exacerbated by the US withdrawal in 2021, protecting millions of Afghans.
The full statement of Irabani is as follows:
President Madame
Congratulations Denmark on assuming a security council presidency and praises China for its successful and effective leadership in February. SRSG Ms. Otunbayeva thanked me for giving me such a valuable briefing. We paid close attention to Azada Raz Mohammad’s statement. Today’s briefings once again highlight the lasting challenges facing Afghan people despite continuous efforts to improve the situation at the United Nations.
The latest report from the Secretary General (S/2025/109) highlights the worsening humanitarian crisis, the continued erosion of human rights, particularly for women and girls, and the persistent security threats that it calls for.
In this context, I would like to emphasize the following points:
1. Afghanistan is facing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. Over 22.9 million people need emergency assistance. The 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan will cost $2.42 billion, but funding remains very low. Humanitarian aid must remain fair and unconditional to ensure that aid reaches people in need without obstruction, and funds must not collapse. We ask donors to strengthen their commitment and to halt their interference in lifesaving projects and to grant unhindered access. Furthermore, those responsible for the current crisis in Afghanistan must recklessly withdraw and those who have made the situation worse must fulfill their duties. Policies and announcements such as military equipment and reductions to humanitarian aid are unrealistic and can help to widen tensions and exacerbate people’s suffering.
2. Afghanistan’s frozen assets remain a major issue. Economic recovery requires a responsible fiscal mechanism to support the people of Afghanistan. Sanctions should not block efforts to stabilize the economy, and frozen assets should be released without conditions.
3. Security in Afghanistan remains unstable. The threat posed by ISIL-K and other terrorist groups operating in the country are wary of security not only in Afghanistan, but also regional and global. With more than twice as many terrorist organizations reportedly in Afghanistan, the DFA must respect international obligations, and counterterrorism efforts remain a priority, and take critical action to effectively eliminate these networks. The international community cannot allow Afghanistan to become a safe shelter for terrorism.
4. The situation for women and girls in Afghanistan remains miserable. Policies and laws, such as the ban on women and girls participating in healthcare, further stripping women of their fundamental rights and exacerbating the healthcare crisis in Afghanistan. These restrictions are unfounded in Islam and are inconsistent with Afghan cultural traditions. We urge the DFA to reconsider these measures and take immediate steps to restore women’s rights.
5. Iran’s policies regarding refugees and immigration in Afghanistan have not changed and are rooted in humanitarian principles. For more than 40 years, Iran has protected millions of Afghans and has been carrying a fierce burden that has grown even more after the reckless US withdrawal in 2021. There are no restrictions on legal Afghan immigration in Iran, and the Iranian consulate issues 5,000 visas every day. However, the deported people illegally entered the country. Security concerns, including terrorist threats, cause Iran to deport those who enter illegally. Let’s be clear. Neighboring countries should not hold this responsibility without support from the international community. Iran and Pakistan need sustainable and meaningful support. The international community must take concrete action beyond rhetoric.
6. Iran is actively involved with the de facto authorities of Afghanistan through both bilateral and regional efforts.
As part of this continued involvement, Iran’s Foreign Minister visited Kabul on January 26, 2025. This discussion includes trade, railway development, investment, border security, and other important bilateral issues. Iran is firmly committed to peace, stability and reconstruction in Afghanistan. We continue to emphasize that stable Afghanistan depends on the establishment of an inclusive and representative government. Such governments are essential to address key challenges, prevent conflict and suppress refugee flows. It is also important to ensure safety, promote economic recovery and support human rights, especially for women and girls.
7. Despite Afghanistan’s challenges, a stable future can be achieved through sustainable international support and shared responsibility. A step-by-step approach within a clear roadmap can help you rebuild trust and security. Iran is actively involved in the Doha process and supports the outcome, including the establishment of a working group on drug and private sector initiatives. While Iran continues to work on implementing these mechanisms, it emphasizes that priorities need to provide concrete results that directly benefit the people of Afghanistan.
8. Finally, as Unama’s delegation update approaches, we reaffirm our support for both the mission and the SRSG in carrying out its responsibilities. Unama is an important figure in Afghanistan and plays an important role in addressing the country’s challenges. We call on the Security Council to ensure that Unama has the necessary resources and to help the SRSG meet its mission effectively.
MP/