TEHRAN – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Associations (IFRC) has called for funding, essential supplies and long-term support to help Afghans return from Iran.
The organization urges governments, donors and humanitarian organisations to support refugees and highlights that Afghanistan’s Red Crescent and its partners are doing everything they can, but the scale of the need is immeasurable.
The number of Afghans returning from Iran this year exceeds 800,000, putting an overwhelming burden on humanitarian resources and the local community, AMU TV reported.
According to the IFRC, more than 137,000 people returned to Afghanistan via the Islamic Kara border in June alone, many of whom were exhausted, dehydrated and lacked basic necessities. The ongoing surge comes from widespread poverty, continuous recovery of conflict and natural disasters.
“This issue doesn’t give the attention it deserves,” said Alexander Mashu, director of Asia-Pacific at IFRC after visiting the border over the weekend. “These individuals are more than just statistics. They are mothers, fathers and children who are back in a country that is already facing major challenges.”
Returnees, who have lived in Iran and Pakistan for years, have now arrived in Afghanistan, which is not equipped to absorb them. In addition to the influx from Iran, more than 1 million people have returned from Pakistan since late 2023, further straining the provision of important services and aid.
At the border, the mobile clinic handles at least 500 patients every day, including pregnant women, children and seniors. Medical supplies remain short, with severe cases referring to nearby hospitals that have already expanded to capacity.
After initial registration, returnees will be taken to Herat city. However, the challenges are urgent, especially as we return to our hometowns that young Afghans know little about. Families face immediate needs for shelter, work and education. Everything is struggling with the economy and state capacity is limited.