Kabul probes reports Iran recruiting Afghans to Syria war
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 19 May 2014 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Kabul probes reports Iran recruiting Afghans to Syria war, 19 May 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/53a13a2c5.html [accessed 28 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
May 19, 2014
By RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan
By RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan
Afghan officials are probing reports that claim Iran has been recruiting thousands of Afghan refugees to fight in Syria.
Afghanistan's Foreign Ministry said on May 18 Kabul has tasked its embassy in Tehran to investigate if the claims are true.
"The Wall Street Journal" reported on May 15 that Iran has been offering $500 a month and Iranian residency to Afghan refugees in exchange for fighting alongside forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, a close ally of Tehran.
The publication said a funeral ceremony was held in the Iranian city of Mashhad last week for four Afghan men killed in Syria.
Afghanistan said sending Afghan refugees to Syria is a violation of their rights, and exploits their vulnerable situation.
Afghanistan's upper house of parliament has asked the Afghan government to request Iranian authorities to clarify the situation.
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
