The Embassy of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in Islamabad has raised concerns over the sudden deportation of Afghan refugees from Islamabad and Rawalpindi, stating that Afghan nationals have been arrested, searched, and expelled without prior notice.

According to reports, Pakistani authorities have begun enforcing a mass deportation policy targeting Afghan refugees, including those holding Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC) and Poor Cards. The Afghan Embassy emphasized that it had not received any official or written communication regarding the move, prompting officials to seek clarification through multiple meetings with relevant Pakistani authorities.

Discussions between Afghan diplomats and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) revealed that the agency was also unaware of the ongoing deportations. However, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry later confirmed that a definitive plan to deport all Afghan refugees is in place. Only Afghan nationals with valid visas will be permitted to stay in the country.

Pakistani officials have stated that the immediate expulsion of Afghan refugees from Islamabad and Rawalpindi is just the beginning of a broader operation, with plans to expand deportations across the country in the near future.

The Afghan Embassy expressed deep concern over the speed and unilateral nature of Pakistan’s decision, stressing the challenges that refugees face as they are forced to leave their homes. Afghan officials are now coordinating with authorities in Kabul to ensure the safe and dignified return of Afghan citizens.

As tensions rise over the mass deportations, Afghan officials continue to engage with Pakistani authorities in an effort to find a resolution that safeguards the rights and dignity of Afghan refugees. (ILKHA)