I extend my sincere gratitude to the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran for their hospitality in hosting Afghan refugees over the course of the past four decades.
In light of the recent decision by the Government of Iran to deport Afghan nationals who do not possess valid legal residency documentation, we regard this as an exercise of the sovereign authority of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
In accordance with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s responsibilities concerning Afghan refugees, we have consistently urged the Iranian authorities to ensure that the deportation process is implemented with gradualism, dignity, and in conformity with the principles of good neighborly relations. This approach serves to both safeguard the rights of the refugees during deportation and enable relevant Afghan institutions to manage their resettlement in an organized and effective manner.
I urge the Iranian authorities to abstain from any actions that may infringe upon the rights or dignity of Afghan refugees during the deportation process. Refugees must be permitted to repatriate their movable property, and be given appropriate opportunity to settle matters concerning their immovable assets and financial accounts.
We further request that the Iranian authorities provide adequate facilities at refugee transit centers during the deportation process, in order to prevent the recurrence of hardships experienced by deportees in recent weeks especially under extreme heat conditions.
I express my sincere appreciation to the officials of the Islamic Emirate and to our esteemed nation for the services rendered to our returning compatriots. I pray to Allah Almighty to grant them continued success in their duties and immense reward.
In conclusion, I once again stress that the Iranian authorities should approach the deportation process with patience and gradualism, so as to prevent the emergence of resentment or hostility between the two brotherly nations.
Wasalam
Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
1447/1/14 AH
1404/4/19 SH — July 10, 2025