Kabul: The United Nations has halted its operations at the Islam Qala border between Afghanistan and Iran, a spokesperson confirmed. This suspension comes in response to new restrictions imposed by the Taliban government that prevent Afghan women workers from participating in operations at the border.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Indrika Ratwatte, the UN’s humanitarian coordinator in Afghanistan, announced the suspension, highlighting the significant operational challenges posed by the restrictions. These new rules are creating substantial risks, particularly for women and girls who are returning to Afghanistan. Islam Qala serves as the principal crossing point for Afghans expelled from Iran, with women making up more than 60 percent of returnees.
Ratwatte emphasized the crucial role of female staff in maintaining dignity and respect when serving returning women and children. The Taliban authorities have not yet commented on this issue. This development follows the Taliban’s 2022 ban on NGOs employing Afghan women, which was extended to UN agencies in 2023. Although some women are still permitted to work in specific sectors or remotely, all Afghan UN employees have been working from home for the past two months. NGOs can still employ Afghan women in the field.
The UN reports that over 1.2 million Afghans have crossed the Islam Qala border from Iran this year, contributing to the 2.2 million Afghans who have returned to the country, including 1.7 million from Iran. Roza Otunbayeva, head of the UN mission in Afghanistan, previously described the situation at Islam Qala as a “test of our collective humanity.” She highlighted the challenges faced by returnees, including trauma, poverty, and limited access to essential services under Taliban rule.
Otunbayeva called for urgent international intervention, warning that Afghanistan cannot bear this burden alone and that inaction would result in loss of lives and increased instability.