As Pakistan intensifies its campaign to deport illegal immigrants, including Afghan nationals, a purported audio clip has surfaced, featuring a stern warning from Mullah Muhammad Yaqub Mujahid, the Acting Defense Minister of the Taliban government. In the audio, he urges Pakistan to carefully consider the repercussions of their deportation actions before taking unilateral measures.
Mujahid called upon Pakistani authorities to treat Afghan nationals with respect, alleging that they had seized the personal assets and belongings of Afghan citizens. He underscored that such actions would not go unchallenged, with the Taliban mobilizing their resources to prevent any confiscation of the property of Afghan refugees. He vowed to ensure that Afghan refugees are not deprived of the dignity they deserve upon returning to their homeland, as reported by Tolo News.
Furthermore, Mullah Mujahid implored the international community, the United Nations, and other organizations to exert pressure on Pakistan to address the ongoing refugee situation. He criticized Pakistan for failing to facilitate the dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees and expressed concerns over the strain this situation has placed on Afghanistan-Pakistan relations.
Mujahid issued a caution to the Pakistani regime, stating, “Even as they repatriate refugees to their country, they must do so with respect and uphold the dignity of those returning to their homeland.” He urged Pakistan to consider the far-reaching consequences of their actions, highlighting the need for thoughtful and responsible measures.
In response to Pakistan’s deportation drive, the northwestern border crossing has witnessed a surge of people seeking to enter Afghanistan after the government’s deadline for undocumented foreigners to depart or face expulsion passed on November 1.
Pakistani authorities had initiated the apprehension of undocumented foreigners, a majority of them Afghan nationals, just hours before the Wednesday deadline. The ultimatum, set by the Pakistani government a month ago, could result in over a million Afghans either leaving the country or facing arrest and forcible expulsion.
Struggling to manage this sudden influx, the Taliban-administered government in Afghanistan reported establishing temporary transit camps while promising to provide food and medical assistance. However, relief agencies have reported dire conditions along the border.
By Reuters
