In an interview with a local media outlet, former Iranian diplomat Rasoul Mousavi, who previously served as Director General for South Asian Affairs at Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stressed that Afghan migrants in Iran should not be treated as foreign spies. His remarks come in the wake of growing tensions surrounding Afghan refugees in Iran, particularly after the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel.
Mousavi stated: “Afghan migrants are not aligned with enemy intelligence agents,” urging Iranian authorities to address migration issues with patience and respect for human dignity.
His comments follow reports that several Afghan migrants were detained by Iranian authorities during the Iran-Israel conflict on allegations of espionage and collaboration with Israel. Iranian state media also aired videos of two Afghan nationals allegedly confessing to working with Israeli intelligence services.
In the days following the ceasefire between Iran and Israel, Iran has seen an unusual spike in the deportation of Afghan migrants.
Drawing on his extensive experience with Afghan affairs, Mousavi stated: “As someone who has worked for years on Afghanistan and is well acquainted with the Afghan people, I can confidently say their hatred toward Israeli spies and hostile intelligence agencies is no less than our own—perhaps even greater.”
He called on Iranian officials to distinguish between unauthorized migrants and those genuinely involved in hostile intelligence activities.
“Handling espionage cases must be separated from the broader issue of undocumented Afghan nationals,” he added.
Mousavi’s appeal for a more humane and measured approach adds to growing domestic and international calls for Iran to ensure fair treatment of Afghan refugees.
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