US-based Human Rights Watch has raised concerns over Pakistan’s intensified raids, detentions, and forced deportations of Afghan refugees following border clashes with Afghanistan. The advocacy group highlighted that Afghan refugees, including children, are facing challenges in accessing essential services due to police actions. Pakistan’s actions may breach international laws against torture and forced return to persecution, the report stated.
Human Rights Watch researcher Fereshta Abbasi criticized Pakistani authorities for instilling fear among Afghan refugees and called for an end to abusive practices. Abbasi urged Pakistan to halt the forced return of Afghan refugees and for the international community to address these human rights violations. The escalation in conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan has led to increased police operations targeting Afghan individuals across the country.
Police in Pakistan have been conducting raids, home searches, and arrests without warrants, detaining Afghans with and without proper documentation. The lack of renewed residency documents for Afghan refugees has resulted in mass deportations, with over 146,000 Afghans deported in 2026 alone. Many detained Afghans have reported being arrested during daily activities and facing extortion for release.
According to Human Rights Watch, Afghan refugees in Pakistan, including vulnerable groups like journalists and activists, face significant risks if deported to Afghanistan. The fear of arrest has prevented families from seeking medical care, worsening the health conditions of refugees. The report highlighted instances of families being forcibly separated during deportations, with children as young as 13 sent back to Afghanistan alone.
