Afghan Refugee Commission Says It Is Ready to Process Returning Migrants

The High Commission for Addressing Refugee Issues has announced that it possesses full operational capacity to receive and resettle Afghan nationals returning from abroad. The statement comes amid ongoing processing delays at the Torkham border crossing, where returnees have faced extended waits on the Pakistani side.

Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, confirmed that domestic authorities are prepared to manage the daily influx of returning citizens. He emphasized that administrative and logistical frameworks are in place to accommodate families, including women, children, and elderly individuals, who have been stranded at the border for multiple days.

The commission urged Pakistani authorities to expedite border procedures to alleviate the hardship faced by those waiting to cross. Officials also called on international organizations, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, to coordinate with Islamabad to ensure safe and orderly returns. The statement highlighted concerns over the treatment of returnees and requested diplomatic engagement to prevent harassment and streamline transit protocols.

Domestic agencies have reiterated their readiness to integrate returning migrants into local communities, citing established reception centers and support services. The commission’s announcement underscores a push to normalize cross-border movement while addressing the logistical challenges currently reported at major transit points.