UNHCR expresses condolences after five Afghans die in Nimroz desert

UNHCR expresses condolences after five Afghans die in Nimroz desert
Afghan deportee receives UNHCR aid near the Islam Qala border crossing on 23 July 2025
Reuters

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has expressed its deepest condolences following the confirmed deaths of five Afghans in Nimroz province, while the search continues for 14 others.

Five people died from thirst and extreme heat while attempting to enter Iran through an irregular route on Sunday, according to the Nimroz Police Command.

Spokesperson Gul Mohammad Qudrat said security forces had recovered the bodies and were continuing efforts to find the remaining 14 people.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said its teams and partners were supporting the families.

“UNHCR extends its heartfelt condolences following the confirmed deaths of five Afghans in Nimroz province. The search continues for 14 people still missing. We are on the ground with partners supporting affected families.”

The agency said the incident showed the human cost of irregular migration and the need for safer options.

“This tragedy is a painful reminder of the human cost of dangerous irregular journeys—and of the need for greater protection and opportunities so people are not compelled to risk their lives.”

Dangerous route to Iran

Many Afghans, particularly young people, attempt to enter Iran through irregular routes in search of work.

The desert crossing in Nimroz is dangerous because migrants can become stranded without enough water in extreme temperatures. Police said thirst and heat caused the five deaths.

The danger continues during winter. Last year, dozens of Afghan migrants were reported to have died from freezing temperatures along the Afghanistan-Iran border during similar journeys.

The repeated deaths and disappearances show that the crossing remains an ongoing problem for Afghans seeking work in Iran.

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