Former Iranian Diplomat: Afghan Migrants Not Linked to ‘Enemy Spies’

Rasoul Mousavi, the former director-general of South Asia affairs at Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has voiced strong concerns regarding the treatment of Afghan migrants in Iran. In a published article, Mousavi emphasized that Afghan migrants “are not aligned with enemy spies” and urged the Iranian government to adopt a more humane, patient, and dignity-based approach in managing the Afghan migrant issue.

His comments come amid rising tensions regarding the treatment of Afghan migrants in Iran, particularly following the recent conflict between Iran and Israel. During the 12-day war, several Afghan migrants were detained on accusations of collaborating with Israel. Iranian media broadcast a video allegedly showing two Afghan nationals “confessing” to such collaboration, though the circumstances under which the video was recorded remain unclear.

Following a ceasefire agreement with Israel, Iran has notably escalated its deportation of Afghan migrants. Mousavi stressed the importance of distinguishing between issues related to Afghan migrants and those concerning alleged espionage activities. He argued that the Iranian authorities should address espionage suspects separately from the broader migrant population to ensure fairness and compassion in the process.

Drawing from his extensive experience working on Afghanistan-related matters, Mousavi pointed out that Afghans’ resentment toward Israeli agents and enemies of Iran is as profound as Iranians’ own, if not more. This, he suggests, underscores the need for a balanced approach, recognizing the complexities of the migrant issue without conflating it with political conflicts.

Mousavi’s remarks reflect growing concerns within Iran regarding the treatment of its Afghan migrant population, many of whom have been residing in the country due to the ongoing instability in Afghanistan. The surge in deportations and arrests can be viewed as part of a broader effort by the Iranian government to manage its domestic policies while navigating its geopolitical relations.

The handling of Afghan migrants has long been a sensitive issue in Iran. While many Afghans have integrated into Iranian society, the complex political dynamics between Iran, Israel, and Afghanistan continue to complicate their status. Mousavi’s call for a more nuanced approach to Afghan migrants is likely to intensify ongoing debates about how best to manage the challenges posed by this group, especially as Iran faces mounting social, economic, and political pressures.