a high-level meeting held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 (31 Saratan 1404), in Tehran, Iran proposed a tripartite summit involving the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and Iranian authorities to devise coordinated solutions for the ongoing Afghan migrant crisis.
The proposal was presented during discussions between Eskandar Momeni, Iran’s Interior Minister, and Filippo Grandi, the UNHCR High Commissioner.Momeni emphasized Iran’s readiness for dialogue, provided international organizations play a guarantor role.
He noted that while many countries swiftly deport undocumented migrants, Iran delays repatriation in cases involving life-threatening risks or urgent medical needs.
Momeni highlighted that 3 to 4 million Afghan migrants currently reside in Iran, many of whom are integrated into society, attending schools, workshops, and workplaces alongside Iranian citizens, and are treated with respect.Grandi expressed gratitude for Iran’s hospitality toward Afghan migrants and stressed the need for a gradual repatriation process to avoid overwhelming Afghanistan’s interim government.
Having previously assessed the situation inside Afghanistan, Grandi warned that the immediate return of tens of thousands could exacerbate existing economic and social challenges. He acknowledged the decline in global aid to Iran and pledged to advocate for increased international support to address the migrant situation.
Nader Yarahmadi, advisor to Iran’s Interior Minister and head of the Foreign Nationals and Migrants Affairs Office, underscored the extensive services provided to migrants by Iranian institutions despite limited global assistance.
He urged the international community to translate observations into concrete actions and financial support, emphasizing that only legally residing migrants should access services, while others should be repatriated lawfully. Iran remains committed to finding a joint solution through negotiations with Afghanistan’s interim government and international bodies.
This initiative reflects Iran’s proactive stance in addressing the Afghan migrant crisis while seeking global cooperation to ensure a sustainable and humane resolution.
