Iran's Commander-in-Chief of Police, Ahmadreza Radan, has announced a stringent policy requiring all "illegal" migrants to leave Iran and return to their countries of origin by the end of the Persian year next March.
The declaration, made during a news conference on Wednesday, marks an escalation in Iran's approach to unauthorized foreign nationals within its borders.
Radan emphasized, "The policy and plans are based on the return of all illegal nationals."
He further stated that unauthorized citizens would be barred from participating in the Arbaeen pilgrimage, warning that any attempts to approach the borders would result in arrest and detention in camps.
The announcement follows a statement made by Iran's Ministry of Interior in April, specifically calling for Afghan immigrants to "return to their land and settle in Afghanistan."
The policy appears to be part of a broader initiative, with reports suggesting that a nationwide plan to arrest and deport migrants has already begun in Tehran, with police conducting "clean up" operations.
Majid Ghamkhar, a Tehran-based reporter, said on his X profile that unauthorized workers in Tehran's central fruit and vegetable market were rounded up, and Afghan workers in coffee shops were arrested.
He noted, "The police are arresting and deporting [them] across the border."
While exact figures are disputed, estimates of Afghan nationals in Iran range from 5 to 8 million, with some sources suggesting the number could be as high as 10 million.
This influx has been partly attributed to the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan three years ago, which prompted many Afghans to flee their homeland fearing extremist actions.
The crackdown on illegal immigrants, particularly targeting Afghan nationals, has raised concerns among human rights organizations.
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