Please refer to the attached file.
Operational Update
Afghanistan’s operating environment in July remained fluid, as large-scale returns from Pakistan and Iran continued alongside heightened regional tensions and insecurity in several parts of the country. Afghanistan–Pakistan tensions escalated during the first half of the month amid reported armed clashes, shelling and airspace violations along the border. Although major cross-border incidents eventually subsided, bilateral relations remained tense. Increased armed opposition activity, including clashes in Badakhshan and elsewhere, also raised concerns over further internal displacement. Administrative and operational constraints affected access and programme delivery, including changes to the delivery of women-focused activities in Herat that resulted in the temporary pause of some programmes.
In Iran, increased deportations and returns of Afghan nationals continued alongside intensified enforcement against undocumented Afghans, documentation renewal challenges and deteriorating socioeconomic conditions. Military strikes and damage to transport and logistics infrastructure also disrupted access, supply chains and commercial activity. In Kerman, Sistan and Baluchestan, reinforced border security measures and risks along irregular routes heightened protection concerns, including for those attempting to cross under dangerous circumstances. Despite the volatile environment, UNHCR maintained its operational presence across Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, Kerman and the Dogharoun border, supporting protection monitoring, documentation and assistance.
In Pakistan, enforcement against Afghan nationals without valid visas intensified from 10 July following a Government directive to accelerate implementation of the existing ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ (IFRP). Arrests, detention, raids and deportations were reported while landlord pressure and evictions added to uncertainty among Afghan communities. Fear of these measures remained a key factor influencing decisions to leave. Afghan students with Proof of Registration cards were also reportedly arrested and deported despite advocacy. Enforcement by authorities was particularly pronounced in Balochistan and Sindh and concerns over possible removal persisted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Islamabad/Rawalpindi where enforcement was less uniform. Security measures at Torkham and ongoing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan at the border also impacted cross-border movement and humanitarian access. ¹