Surging Returns from Iran Strain Fragile Support Systems in Afghanistan, UN Agencies Warn
Kabul, Afghanistan – June 30, 2025 – United Nations agencies are issuing a critical alert regarding the overwhelming pressure on Afghanistan’s already strained humanitarian and support systems due to a significant surge in returns of Afghan nationals from Iran. The escalating numbers of people arriving back in the country are reportedly outpacing the capacity of existing aid mechanisms to adequately assist them, posing a growing challenge to the well-being of both returnees and host communities.
The report, published by Asia Pacific, highlights the complex humanitarian situation unfolding at Afghanistan’s borders. While the exact figures are still being aggregated, anecdotal evidence and initial data suggest a substantial increase in the daily arrival of Afghans previously residing in Iran. These individuals, many of whom have spent years or even decades in Iran, are returning under a variety of circumstances, including changes in migration policies in Iran, economic pressures, and the hope of finding stability within their homeland.
However, the arrival of such a large and concentrated number of returnees is placing immense strain on critical infrastructure and essential services. Humanitarian agencies on the ground are reporting significant challenges in providing immediate assistance, including shelter, food, water, and basic healthcare, to all those arriving. Existing support systems, which were already operating under immense pressure due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, are finding it increasingly difficult to cope with the added demand.
The implications of this surge are far-reaching. For the returnees themselves, the lack of adequate resources can lead to increased vulnerability, including risks of malnutrition, disease, and further displacement. Many may arrive with limited possessions and require immediate support to reintegrate into Afghan society. For the communities hosting these returnees, the increased pressure on local resources, such as water, sanitation, and employment opportunities, can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and potentially lead to tensions.
UN agencies are actively working to scale up their response and mobilize additional resources, but the sheer volume of arrivals presents a formidable challenge. Efforts are underway to coordinate assistance across various sectors, with a particular focus on ensuring that the most vulnerable among the returnees, including women, children, and the elderly, receive the priority support they need.
The international community is being urged to recognize the gravity of this situation and to provide sustained and increased support to Afghanistan. A robust and coordinated response is essential to mitigate the immediate humanitarian consequences and to support the long-term reintegration and resilience of those returning. The ability of Afghanistan to absorb and support its returning citizens hinges on the collective efforts of both national and international partners, working collaboratively to strengthen fragile support systems and ensure that no one is left behind.
Afghanistan: Surging returns from Iran overwhelm fragile support systems, UN agencies warn
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