As Iran-Taliban tensions rise, Afghan migrants in tinderbox
By MEHDI FATTAHI and ISABEL DEBRE
Associated Press
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Afghanistan’s border with Iran has become a lifeline for desperate refugees after the country plunged into economic crisis following the withdrawal of American and NATO troops last summer. Thousands arrived in search of money and work. But recently, the desert crossing — a dangerous corner of the world — has become a growing source of tension. Disputes erupted between Taliban and Iranian border guards. Afghan protesters hurled stones and burned tires at an Iranian Consulate after reports spread of Afghan migrant abuse in Iran. Political analysts say the cash-strapped nations with a fraught history don’t want an escalation. But as both sides urge calm, long-smoldering hostilities risk spiraling out of control.
