Impoverished by war in Iran, Afghan migrants return to Taliban rule

Mohammad Saeed, just 18 years old, fled to Iran with his family in 2021 as the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan. Now, the economic crisis in Iran, fueled by conflict with the US and Israel, has driven Saeed and many others to return. The family arrived with little, as the Iranian currency plummeted, rendering their savings nearly worthless.

Iran's once-stable economy has collapsed, leaving Afghans with few options. Despite strict restrictions on women in Afghanistan, including limited education and employment opportunities, many Afghans are returning to their homeland, even if it means facing a tough economic situation. The border region between Iran and Afghanistan is flooded with returning migrants, undergoing registration at the Islam Qala crossing.

The economic situation in Iran has been dire, with consumer prices surging by nearly 90% year-on-year and food inflation reaching 130%, making essentials unaffordable. Returning Afghans reported facing joblessness and crushing inflation before deciding to come home. Inflation in Iran has been devastating, with food prices soaring by nearly 130%, making basic necessities unaffordable.

Many Afghans have seen their income drop by nearly a third, with only 29% retaining any savings. For the average Afghan, the situation has become dire, with the International Organisation for Migration reporting that only 29% of Afghans returning from Iran have any savings left. Over two million Afghans have left Iran in the past two years, with most being deported.

However, the recent wave of returnees includes more women and entire families. The Taliban's strict rules limit women's travel, education, and employment, creating a difficult situation for returning families. Abdul Jabbar, a 44-year-old migrant, returned with his family after the war hit Afghanistan, seeking work and safety. Despite their initial comfort in Iran, the economic crisis forced them back.

Jabbar's daughter misses her life in Iran, longing for education and socializing with friends. At the border, the Taliban officials report that at least 20 to 40 families, including women and girls, return daily, with Iran's employers often withholding wages.