Pakistan Issues Warning to Deport Afghan Refugees Amidst U.S. Resettlement Delays
Pakistan threatens to deport Afghan refugees awaiting U.S. resettlement if processing delays occur. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar declared that such individuals would be deemed illegal immigrants. This stance intensifies pre-existing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, especially as Pakistan contemplates returning activists apprehended within its borders amid a deteriorating situation for Afghan migrants.
Pakistan has issued a stern warning to deport thousands of Afghan nationals who are awaiting resettlement in the United States. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that if another country, such as the U.S., fails to process these refugees, they will be regarded as illegal immigrants within Pakistan and subsequently returned to Afghanistan. This action arises amidst already strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul, potentially exacerbating tensions further.
Moreover, recent reports indicate that Pakistan is contemplating returning human rights activist Zahra Mousavi, who has been detained by Pakistani authorities. In light of worsening conditions for Afghan migrants in Pakistan, the Pakistani government has reportedly intensified its efforts to apprehend Afghan refugees under various charges.
The influx of Afghans into Pakistan has surged since the Taliban regained power in 2021, with many fleeing persecution. However, reports of harassment and mass expulsions have raised alarms among human rights organizations regarding the treatment of these refugees within Pakistan.
Although Afghan officials have yet to respond to Dar’s statements, the ongoing situation could complicate diplomatic relations between the two countries. Furthermore, amid these developments, former President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order that suspends the U.S. refugee admissions program unless it aligns with American interests.
In summary, Pakistan’s warning to deport Afghan refugees highlights the escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan following the U.S. withdrawal. With ongoing challenges faced by Afghans in Pakistan, including potential deportations and the return of human rights activists, the humanitarian situation remains precarious. Diplomatic responses from Afghanistan are awaited, alongside the implications of U.S. immigration policy under former President Trump. This situation illustrates the complex interplay between migration, international relations, and human rights, as Afghan nationals continue to navigate threats and uncertainty in both their home country and neighboring regions.
Original Source: www.india.com
