Iran has taken a bold step to increase security along its eastern border with Afghanistan by building a wall spanning over 10 kilometers, with plans for an additional 50 kilometers, according to local media reports. With a border of more than 900 kilometers, Iran has a significant refugee population, mostly comprising Afghans who have fled conflict in their home country over the years.
Since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, there has been an increase in Afghan immigrants crossing into Iran. The Iranian authorities have ramped up efforts to curb illegal immigration, including announcing expulsions through the eastern border.
General Nozar Nemati, deputy commander of army ground forces, emphasized the importance of controlling entries and exits to enhance border security. Alongside the wall, Iran plans to implement other measures such as barbed wire and water-filled ditches to fortify the border.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed the government’s commitment to repatriating illegal nationals in a respectful manner. As of March 2023, Iran hosted over 2.7 million documented Afghan refugees, representing the majority of legal migrants in the country.
Overall, Iran’s efforts aim to address the challenges posed by increasing immigration and ensure the safety and security of its border areas. With these measures in place, Iran seeks to manage the flow of immigrants effectively and maintain border security.