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Afghan Embassy in Pakistan Condemns Detention of 800 Afghans, Including UN Refugees
The Afghan Embassy in Pakistan condemns the detention of 800 Afghans in Islamabad, including UN-registered refugees. Many families, including women and children, are now separated.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-07
Afghan Embassy in Pakistan Condemns Detention of 800 Afghans, Including UN Refugees

The Afghan embassy in Pakistan has expressed deep concern over the recent detention of approximately 800 Afghan nationals in Islamabad, including several individuals who are registered with the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR). This development has sparked fears over the uncertain visa process for Afghans living in Pakistan, with the embassy warning of “disturbing cases of detention and deportation.”

In a statement issued on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Afghan embassy highlighted that the detentions had led to the tragic separation of families, with many women and children left stranded in Pakistan. "This has led to the tragic separation of families, including women and children, many of whom are stranded in Pakistan," the embassy's statement read.

The detained individuals include 137 Afghans whose visa extension applications are still pending, as well as others who are temporarily registered with the UNHCR. The embassy condemned the actions, describing them as an alarming escalation in the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the visa and residency status of Afghan nationals in Pakistan.

The Afghan government’s warning comes amid rising tensions between the two countries regarding the status of Afghan refugees and migrants in Pakistan. In recent months, many Afghans have faced increased scrutiny, with some being detained and deported, despite the fact that a significant number of them are registered refugees or have pending visa applications.

According to the Afghan embassy, the uncertainty regarding visa renewals and residency status has created an environment of fear and instability for Afghan nationals living in Pakistan. The embassy is calling for the release of the detained individuals and urges Pakistan to reconsider its approach towards Afghan refugees, especially those who are officially recognized by the UNHCR.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has yet to comment on the matter, and it remains unclear how authorities plan to address the concerns raised by the Afghan embassy.

This development marks another chapter in the strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly regarding the status of Afghan refugees, many of whom fled their country due to the ongoing conflict and instability. The Afghan government has repeatedly called for greater protections for its citizens residing in Pakistan, especially those who are registered with international agencies like the UNHCR.

As the situation continues to evolve, the Afghan embassy in Pakistan is calling on both countries to resolve these issues diplomatically, ensuring that the rights and safety of Afghan nationals are protected.
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