The Embassy of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has raised concerns regarding the detention of Afghan nationals in Islamabad, including individuals reportedly holding valid documents.

In response, Pakistani authorities have clarified that the ongoing operation targets illegal immigrants and is being conducted responsibly, transparently, and in line with international norms.

Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon, addressed the situation, confirming that Afghan nationals with valid documents—such as Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC), visas, or those listed for third-country resettlement—are not subject to repatriation. “Our objective is to ensure that undocumented individuals are addressed under the law without causing inconvenience to those who have legal status,” he stated.

Efforts to Streamline Verification Process

Pakistani authorities have established a dedicated facility to assist Afghan nationals in verifying their credentials efficiently. Afghan nationals residing in Islamabad have been advised to carry identification documents at all times to avoid unnecessary delays during verification processes.

The repatriation operation aligns with global practices, as no country permits undocumented immigrants to reside freely, particularly in capital cities like Islamabad. Officials emphasized that the measures are not targeting any specific community but are part of a broader initiative to uphold national security and ensure lawful residency.

Countering Misleading Narratives

Authorities have also cautioned against the amplification of misleading narratives on social media, which, they say, are creating unnecessary friction and do not reflect ground realities. “Such narratives only serve to misrepresent Pakistan’s consistent efforts to maintain good relations with Afghanistan,” an official source remarked.

Pakistan's approach underscores a commitment to enforcing its laws while respecting the dignity of Afghan nationals during the repatriation process. Efforts are being made to maintain transparency and ensure that the process is carried out without discrimination or undue hardship.

The government reiterated its dedication to fostering stronger ties with Afghanistan through mutual understanding and cooperation. Officials urged all stakehold