The United Nations has expressed concern over a potential increase in Afghan migrants returning from Iran, warning that many could face heightened vulnerability upon arrival in Afghanistan.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said its primary concern remains the safety and protection of Afghan returnees, particularly as regional tensions continue to affect migrant communities.

According to the agency, there has not yet been a significant rise in the number of Afghans returning from Iran despite ongoing instability and conflict in the wider region. However, UNHCR said it is preparing for the possibility of a sudden influx.

The agency noted that contingency measures are already being put in place at key border crossings, including Islam Qala, to ensure that humanitarian assistance can be delivered quickly if return numbers increase.

UNHCR said it is currently providing a range of support services for Afghans returning from Iran, including cash assistance, protection services, temporary shelter, healthcare and registration.

Deputy UNHCR spokesperson Faramarz Barzin said the organization is closely monitoring the situation while prioritizing the protection of vulnerable returnees.

“Our primary concern continues to be the safety and protection of Afghan returnees, who are particularly vulnerable under the current circumstances,” Barzin said.

 “Although we have not yet observed a significant increase in returns from Iran, UNHCR is actively preparing for the possibility of a rise in arrivals.”

He added that precautionary measures are already underway at major border crossings, particularly at Islam Qala, to ensure rapid assistance if the number of returnees grows.

The warning comes as humanitarian organizations report continued forced or pressured returns of Afghan migrants from both Iran and Pakistan, a trend that could further strain Afghanistan’s already fragile humanitarian situation.

UNHCR said it is working closely with international partners to monitor developments and adapt its response to meet the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, children and people at heightened risk.

Many Afghan migrants return under pressure from host countries or due to fears linked to regional tensions. Once back in Afghanistan, many face significant challenges, including poverty, unemployment and a lack of adequate housing.

The Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) has called on all parties involved in conflicts across the Middle East and in rising tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians and aid workers.

In a statement issued in Kuala Lumpur, the organization warned that escalating military operations risk worsening the humanitarian situation for vulnerable communities already affected by violence and instability.

MRCS echoed concerns raised by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which has cautioned that increased hostilities pose a serious threat to civilians caught in conflict zones.

The society reminded all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law to safeguard non-combatants, medical workers, and essential infrastructure such as hospitals and health facilities.

Red Cross and Red Crescent teams continue to provide humanitarian assistance in affected areas wherever access is possible.

Their work includes delivering emergency medical care, supporting communities in crisis, and strengthening local preparedness for further humanitarian challenges.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is also coordinating with national societies across the region to monitor urgent humanitarian needs and support relief operations.

MRCS National Chairman Tan Sri Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah stressed the importance of allowing humanitarian organizations to operate without obstruction.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this conflict,” she said in the statement.

She urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and allow humanitarian teams to deliver urgently needed assistance without interference.

MRCS also emphasized that civilians, humanitarian personnel, public infrastructure, and the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblem must be respected and protected at all times under international law.