WFP Reports Pakistan Border Closures Deepen Afghanistan Humanitarian Crisis

The World Food Programme has reported that closures at major border crossings with Pakistan have forced a significant shift in Afghanistan's trade routes. Approximately 60 percent of the country's trade now moves through Iran, resulting in longer and more expensive transportation.

This change has led to sharp increases in the prices of food, fuel, and fertilizer. Items such as Pakistani rice, sugar, cooking oil, fuel, and fertilizer have seen notable price rises since October 2025.

The agency stated that 13.8 million people in Afghanistan are facing acute food insecurity. An additional 2.3 million could enter acute hunger within the next six months if the situation persists.

The return of approximately six million Afghans from Pakistan and Iran since 2023 has added pressure on the economy. Of these returnees, only one in five has secured formal employment.

Temporary closures at crossings including Torkham and Spin Boldak-Chaman have disrupted both trade and aid deliveries. Pakistan has continued its deportation campaign against undocumented Afghans.

The World Food Programme has called for the reopening of trade routes, increased funding, and additional humanitarian assistance to address the crisis.