A number of Afghan refugees in Iran have expressed concerns about the newly imposed restrictions in the country, saying these limitations will make it challenging for them to find suitable jobs and shelter.
Some of these refugees are urging the authorities in the caretaker government to address these challenges seriously.
“We are facing serious problems in Iran, including not having a bank card, which means we can’t even buy bread at a bakery or shop for essentials,” said Jawad, an Afghan migrant.
Previously, Iranian media reported that according to a “new regulation,” the residence and employment of refugees in certain areas of the country have been prohibited.
Nader Yarahmadi, head of the Center for Foreign Nationals and Migrants Affairs, announced that East Azerbaijan, West Azerbaijan, Zanjan, Sistan and Baluchistan, and Mazandaran provinces are among the areas where the presence of refugees has been restricted.
A report from Iranian media stated: “According to this law, the provinces of East Azerbaijan, West Azerbaijan, Ardabil, Zanjan, Kurdistan, Kermanshah, Ilam, Lorestan, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, North Khorasan, Gilan, Mazandaran, Sistan and Baluchistan, Khuzestan, and Hamedan are completely off-limits for foreign nationals to travel or settle. Some areas in other provinces are also designated as restricted zones.”
“In some cities, migrants without documentation or those with permission but no residence rights must ensure that they obtain clearance from the Kafalat offices before traveling to these provinces to avoid problems,” said Mohammad Khan Talebi, a migration rights activist.
A significant portion of refugees in Iran are Afghan citizens.
Meanwhile, Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate has called on host countries not to impose new restrictions on Afghan refugees.
The spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, stated: “In general, we request that Afghan refugees be treated with kindness and not face restrictions or difficulties. Of course, we are making efforts to encourage and facilitate their return to Afghanistan. However, exerting pressure, imposing restrictions, and placing them under threats is not the right approach.”
Given the current situation, it is expected that this decision will have serious consequences for the lives of thousands of Afghan refugees in Iran, adding further challenges to their livelihoods and security.