A tragic bus crash in northwestern Afghanistan resulted in the deaths of at least 79 people, including 19 children, as they were returning from Iran. The incident occurred on the night of March 12, 2025, in Herat Province, according to the interior ministry spokesperson, Abdul Mateen Qani. Two additional individuals sustained injuries during the collision.
The bus reportedly collided with a truck and a motorbike, which led to a devastating fire that engulfed the vehicle and tragically claimed many lives on the spot. This incident highlights the persistent issue of traffic accidents in Afghanistan, often attributed to inadequate road conditions and driver negligence.
In recent months, the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan has worsened as nearly 1.8 million Afghans have been forcibly returned from Iran. The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation noted that an additional 184,459 were sent back from Pakistan and over 5,000 were deported from Turkey since the beginning of 2025. Furthermore, nearly 10,000 Afghan prisoners have been repatriated, predominantly from Pakistan.
The Taliban government has criticized neighboring countries, particularly Iran and Pakistan, for their mass expulsion of Afghan nationals, which they argue is unjust. In July, the Taliban condemned these actions, asserting that many of those expelled were living in these countries legally.
As the situation unfolds, the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation reports that approximately six million Afghan refugees continue to reside abroad, a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting Afghanistan.
This latest bus crash not only underscores the dangers of travel within Afghanistan but also reflects the broader challenges faced by the Afghan populace in light of geopolitical tensions and economic difficulties.
