Afghan Migrants Undermine Attempts to Fuel Iran–Afghanistan Tensions

DID Press: A new commentary by Seyed Ruhollah Hosseini, cultural adviser of the Iran in Afghanistan, examines the role of Afghan migrants in recent social developments and highlights how their conduct helped reduce tensions and counter divisive narratives.

The author argues that despite shortcomings in migration management and dissatisfaction among some migrants regarding return policies, as well as sustained efforts by hostile groups and certain media outlets to inflame divisions, the real-life behavior of Afghan migrants presented a markedly different picture.

According to the commentary, the visible and meaningful presence of Afghan migrants—men and women, young and old—in public spaces across Iran undermined pre-planned scenarios aimed at creating mistrust and social fractures, while opening new prospects for solidarity and mutual understanding between the two nations.

The article notes that during earlier periods of tension, particularly amid a previous 12-day conflict, attempts were made to portray Afghan migrants as suspicious elements or security threats. However, during a subsequent 40-day conflict, that perception shifted significantly as migrants demonstrated responsible conduct and civic engagement.

The writer attributes some negative incidents surrounding migrants to policy missteps and external pressures, but also to deliberate actions by adversarial actors, especially through online disinformation and psychological operations designed to damage social cohesion.

He concludes that Afghan migrants have played a decisive role in reshaping perceptions of the Afghan diaspora, presenting an image grounded in responsibility, solidarity, and shared cultural values. The commentary further stresses that the future of relations between Iran and Afghanistan depends on cooperation, mutual respect, and joint progress.

By Seyed Ruhollah Hosseini, cultural adviser of the Iran in Afghanistan