Iran Becomes Deadliest Migrant Route as Thousands Die in Border Crossings

Iran has emerged as the world's deadliest migratory route, with 3,995 deaths and disappearances recorded in 2023 alone.

“Local authorities in Herat confirmed the deaths of three Afghan men and a shepherd due to the cold at the Afghanistan–Iran border”

BBC

Iran's historical total since 2014 reached 5,786, surpassing the US-Mexico border toll.

BBC

Deaths began rising after the pandemic, with 2024 seeing a peak of 1,508 occurrences on Iranian soil.

IOM attributed the high toll to extreme environmental conditions, violence, and dangerous transportation.

Afghans attempting to cross into Iran succumbed to freezing temperatures.

Migrants abandoned by smugglers filmed their plight, recounting how two companions died from cold.

DW

The Taliban governor confirmed three deaths, while local sources reported at least 15 bodies transferred to Herat.

The BBC quoted Herat officials confirming three men plus a shepherd had died from the cold.

The migration surge was driven by economic desperation and political instability.

“Since 2023, Iran has been the country with the highest number of deaths and disappearances recorded on migratory routes”

Folha de S.Paulo

Families sent children as young as 14 on perilous journeys.

One mother told DW her 15-year-old son died from cold after leaving to bring food for the family.

The Pamir Voice News Agency reported that conditions at the border were snowy, rainy, and extremely cold.