Pakistan Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Afghan Nationals Pakistan has initiated a nationwide crackdown on foreign nationals, primarily targeting Afghans residing in the country without proper documentation. The government had set a deadline for all undocumented immigrants to leave the country by October 31, after which action would be taken against those who had not complied. Reports have begun pouring in about police arresting undocumented foreigners in various cities across Pakistan. In Karachi, four illegal Afghan immigrants were detained and will be repatriated to Afghanistan after fulfilling legal formalities.

Similar arrests were made in other cities, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Quetta. According to official estimates, over 4 million Afghans live in Pakistan, with approximately 1.7 million being undocumented. The decision to crack down on illegal foreigners was made in light of a spate of terrorist attacks this year, some of which were carried out by Afghan nationals. Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have condemned Pakistan's deportation policy, expressing concerns about the potential dangers faced by vulnerable groups, including women and girls, upon their return to Afghanistan.

The United Nations refugee agency has also expressed concerns and issued slips to those seeking assistance, although these slips are not officially recognized by Pakistani authorities. Despite criticism, Pakistan's government has moved forward with its deportation plans. The interior minister has announced the establishment of centers across the country to process detainees before deportation, with special consideration given to the elderly, children, and women. The Taliban government in Afghanistan has urged Pakistan to reconsider its deportation efforts, expressing dissatisfaction with the move. Afghanistan plans to register returnees and accommodate them in temporary camps, while the Taliban administration aims to assist them in finding employment.

However, concerns persist regarding the economic impact of thousands of deportees on Afghanistan's fragile economy. Many Afghans in Pakistan are living in uncertainty, worried about their future and the prospects for their families. There are also concerns about the safety of returnees, especially those who had worked for international forces, amidst reports of targeted violence against former government officials and armed forces members. As the deportation process continues, aid agencies and observers remain vigilant about the humanitarian consequences, particularly in light of Afghanistan's challenging economic situation and ongoing humanitarian needs.