George Gagnon, acting head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), has stressed the need for sustained support for Afghans returning from Iran and Pakistan during a visit to western parts of Afghanistan, including the Islam Qala border crossing.
Gagnon said on Thursday, October 1, that returnees need assistance not only at points of entry but also continued humanitarian support and essential services after they are resettled.
The acting head of UNAMA called on Taliban officials and international partners to continue supporting returnees and host communities.
The United Nations launched a $529 million plan earlier this year to address the situation of returnees.
The plan aims to assist about 2.7 million Afghans who are expected to return to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan between April and December 2026.
