Iran Warns Deported Afghan Migrants: Illegal Return Leads to Court

On Monday, September 1, 2025, Nader Yarahmadi, an official from Iran’s Ministry of Interior, warned that Afghan migrants who return to Iran after being deported will face judicial consequences.

Speaking on Iranian state television, Yarahmadi highlighted the issue of some deported migrants repeatedly re-entering the country illegally.

He cited an example of an individual who, according to him, “has been deported 20 times and returned each time.” Yarahmadi noted that this person’s case is currently under review in court, signaling strict enforcement of immigration laws.

Yarahmadi emphasized Iran’s tough stance on illegal migration, stating that authorities are determined to deal decisively with those who violate immigration regulations.

He urged Afghan migrants to respect Iran’s laws and refrain from attempting illegal re-entry, warning that such actions not only carry legal repercussions but also threaten public order and security.

The official’s remarks come amid Iran’s ongoing efforts to manage the large number of Afghan migrants in the country, many of whom have been deported in recent years due to illegal entry or residency.

The issue of Afghan migration remains a complex challenge for both Iran and Afghanistan. Many Afghan migrants, driven by economic hardship, insecurity, and lack of job opportunities in their home country, risk returning to Iran despite deportations.

This has created significant social and economic pressures for Iran, while Afghanistan grapples with the challenges of reintegrating returning migrants.

Yarahmadi stressed the need for bilateral cooperation between Iran and Afghanistan to address the issue effectively, calling for coordinated efforts to manage migration flows and prevent illegal border crossings