Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – Afghanistan’s Prime Minister, Hasan Akhund, has condemned Pakistan’s “unilateral deportation” of Afghan refugees, accusing Islamabad of exacerbating the crisis and obstructing efforts to find a lasting solution. The strong criticism comes after Pakistan began a strict campaign in April to forcibly expel over 800,000 Afghan nationals, including many born in Pakistan or residents for decades.
Speaking in Kabul on Saturday, Akhund emphasized that Pakistan’s actions, instead of fostering cooperation with Afghanistan on a gradual repatriation plan, were intensifying the humanitarian challenges. “Rather than collaborating with the Islamic Emirate on the gradual repatriation process, Pakistan’s unilateral measures are hindering progress toward a solution,” Akhund stated.
In a rare diplomatic visit, Pakistan’s top diplomat, Ishaq Dar, met with Afghan Taliban officials in Kabul, including Akhund and Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Despite the meeting, Afghanistan’s leadership expressed deep concerns about the forced deportation of Afghan refugees and reiterated the call for a dignified return.
“Pakistan must facilitate the safe and respectful return of refugees,” said Akhund, adding that the Pakistani government should support a more humane solution.
Pakistan’s ongoing crackdown on refugees has led to reports of arbitrary arrests, extortion, and harassment. Thousands of Afghan families are being pushed to cross the border each day, fearing raids and potential separation from their families. As of Friday, nearly 85,000 Afghans have already crossed back into Afghanistan, with many fleeing without proper documentation.
Pakistan’s deputy interior minister, Tallal Chaudhry, has made it clear that no leniency will be granted, asserting that the deadline for departure will not be extended.
The diplomatic tension between the two neighboring countries has escalated since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, with a surge in cross-border attacks. Pakistan has accused Kabul of harboring militants who launch attacks into Pakistan, a claim the Taliban government denies.
The United Nations reports that more than half of the deported Afghans are children, and many women and girls are returning to a country where their rights are severely restricted, including bans on education beyond secondary school and restrictions on employment in numerous sectors.
Afghan officials have recorded approximately 71,000 returnees through the border points with Pakistan from April 1 to 18, with many fearing further deportations in the coming days.
As this humanitarian crisis deepens, both governments are under increasing pressure to resolve the issue in a way that ensures the safety and dignity of Afghan refugees.
