Five Afghan migrants die trying to enter Iran, 14 missing

At least five Afghan migrants have died while attempting to cross into Iran through remote desert areas in Afghanistan's southwestern Nimroz

At least five Afghan migrants have died while attempting to cross into Iran through remote desert areas in Afghanistan’s southwestern Nimroz province, while search efforts are continuing for 14 others who remain missing, according to local authorities.

Officials said the victims were part of a group of 19 people who were trying to enter neighbouring Iran through an illegal route that passes across the deserts of Helmand and Nimroz provinces. The group is believed to have become stranded in the harsh terrain, where extreme temperatures and a lack of drinking water proved fatal.

Local police said the five migrants are believed to have died from severe dehydration and prolonged exposure to intense heat. Rescue teams and security personnel have launched a search operation to trace the remaining members of the group, whose whereabouts are still unknown.

Every year, thousands of Afghans attempt to enter Iran through unofficial border crossings in search of employment and better economic opportunities. Many choose dangerous desert routes to avoid border restrictions, exposing themselves to life-threatening conditions, including extreme heat during summer and freezing temperatures in winter.

Humanitarian organisations have repeatedly warned about the risks faced by irregular migrants travelling through remote border regions. Long distances without access to food, water, or medical assistance often leave migrants vulnerable to dehydration, exhaustion, and death.

Similar tragedies have occurred in recent years. Last year, several Afghan migrants reportedly died after being exposed to freezing weather while attempting to cross into Iran through mountainous border areas.

Iran remains one of the largest host countries for Afghan refugees and migrants. However, the country has also stepped up efforts to return undocumented Afghan nationals. International organisations have reported a sharp increase in deportations over the past year, with large numbers of Afghans being sent back across the border.