Desperate Afghans risk dangerous escapes to Iran by climbing a wall or driving through the desert

Since the Taliban takeover in August 2021, Afghanistan has been on the brink of economic collapse, triggering one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. Many continue to seek to escape from the country, including in the northwestern city of Zaranj where dozens of desperate Afghans have been attempting to flee to neighbouring Iran by risking a dangerous drive across the desert or being shot at by Iranian border guards. In a video address on March 15, 2022, UNHCR commissioner Filippo Grandi issued a plea to the international community to not forget the plight of the Afghan people.