Pakistan Deports Over 33,000 Afghans in 2 Weeks
Pakistan has deported more than 33,000 Afghan nationals in just two weeks as part of a sweeping crackdown on undocumented migrants, according to reporting by Arshad Mehmood for The Media Line. The expulsions, which began in November 2023, accelerated sharply in April, with thousands sent back daily through border crossings such as Torkham and Spin Boldak. The Pakistani government frames the move as a national security necessity, citing the alleged involvement of Afghan nationals in terrorism and crime. Afghan authorities and humanitarian groups, however, warn of a brewing crisis.
The Afghan government has responded with emergency measures to absorb returnees, including land allocation and the setup of shelters. Aid organizations describe the pace of expulsions as “staggering”, estimating that as many as 20,000 people are returning daily. Refugees interviewed by The Media Line report detention, mistreatment, and forced removals, with many expressing deep fear and dislocation.
Give the gift of hope
We practice what we preach:
accurate, fearless journalism. But we can't do it alone.
- On the ground in Gaza, Syria, Israel, Egypt, Pakistan, and more
- Our program trained more than 100 journalists
- Calling out fake news and reporting real facts
- On the ground in Gaza, Syria, Israel, Egypt, Pakistan, and more
- Our program trained more than 100 journalists
- Calling out fake news and reporting real facts
Join us.
Support The Media Line. Save democracy.
Pakistani officials say the country has shown decades of hospitality toward Afghan refugees, but warn that rising violence and economic pressure leave them no choice. Brig. Gen. (ret.) Haris Nawaz pointed to the security burden posed by groups like Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the use of leftover US arms.
Not all experts agree. Critics like Sadiq Amini and Dr. Naim Asas argue that forced repatriation is both morally wrong and strategically flawed, warning it could fuel Taliban recruitment and regional instability. Some also criticize the Trump administration’s reported rollback of protections for Afghans in the US.
Professor Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed defended Islamabad’s actions, saying Pakistan is facing unprecedented terrorist threats and must prioritize national security.
For more firsthand accounts and expert analysis, read the full report by Arshad Mehmood at The Media Line.
