Pakistan Expels Over 15,000 Afghan Refugees Amid Border Tensions
The Afghan Refugee Commission has reported that Pakistan has forcibly expelled more than 15,000 Afghan nationals in its latest move. According to the commission, the deportations were carried out through three border crossings without regard for the refugees’ basic human rights or humanitarian conditions.
These expulsions come amid renewed tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan, which have led to the closure of all land routes between the two countries. The shutdown has disrupted the orderly transfer and return of refugees, leaving many stranded in dire conditions and without shelter at the borders.
Despite previous negotiations in Doha and Istanbul aimed at easing tensions and establishing a ceasefire, no tangible agreement has been reached to reopen the border crossings. The ongoing border closure continues to put added pressure on Afghan refugees.
The next round of talks between the Taliban administration and the Pakistani government is scheduled to take place on November 6 in Istanbul, Turkey. However, until then, concerns remain over the widespread violations of Afghan refugees’ rights in Pakistan and the Taliban administration’s inability to effectively support its citizens.
