Attachments
HIGHLIGHTS
• Since 10 April 2025, a total of 836 713 returnees have arrived in Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan. A significant surge was recorded between 16 and 30 June, particularly through the Islam Qala border with Iran. During this two-week period alone, 254,280 individuals crossed back into Afghanistan through five key Points of Entry shared with Iran and Pakistan (IOM data).
• WHO Representative Dr Edwin Ceniza Salvador and Deputy WHO Representative Dr Mukta Sharma visited the Islam Qala POE to see firsthand the ongoing response efforts for the returnees.
• WHO has remained fully engaged in delivering essential health services at POEs and reception centers. During the reporting period, the team provided support for surveillance, routine and polio immunization, outpatient consultations, and trauma care.
• The most commonly reported health conditions among returnees included respiratory tract infections (RTIs), acute watery diarrhea (AWD), suspected COVID-19, and scabies.
• In 2025, Afghanistan is expected to receive a substantial influx of returnees, with projections estimating around 1.6 million individuals arriving from Pakistan and up to 2 million returnees coming from Iran (Integrated Appeal, 3 June – Migration Health Working Group).