UN’s Bennett urges probe into Afghan migrant deaths at Iran border

Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, has expressed deep concern over reports of Afghan migrants being killed and injured by Iranian border guards near the Saravan border area.

In a post on X, Bennett called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident and emphasized the urgent need for clarity.

“I’m seriously concerned about reports of injuries and deaths of Afghans in Iran’s Saravan border area, and I call for authorities to investigate transparently,” Bennett stated, adding, “More dignity and safety is needed for Afghans worldwide.”

The incident, which reportedly occurred on Sunday, has been mired in controversy. While the Taliban announced that investigations are ongoing, they have not yet confirmed the details. Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesperson, acknowledged “vague reports” of fatalities but stated that various Taliban agencies, along with diplomatic representatives, are still assessing the situation.

Iranian officials have denied the allegations, with Hassan Kazemi Qomi, Iran’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, asserting that “credible sources” indicate the reports are inaccurate. He defended Iran’s right to enforce border security against illegal crossings.

The initial report came from Haalvsh, an Iranian human rights group, which released video footage purportedly showing Iranian forces firing on Afghan migrants attempting to cross the border. According to Haalvsh, dozens of migrants were killed or injured in the incident.

The reports have sparked strong reactions domestically and internationally, raising concerns over the treatment of Afghan migrants in the region.