Official Statement from the “Women Movement towards Freedom” on the Self-Immolation of a Former Afghan Air Force Pilot and the Global Community’s Irresponsibility Toward Afghan Refugees

With deep sorrow and a heavy heart, the Women Movements towards freedom strongly condemns the tragic death of a former pilot of the Afghan Air Force who, after receiving an exit notice from the Iranian government, set himself on fire and lost his life.

This tragedy is a direct result of the inhumane and ruthless policies that have left Afghan refugees, especially in neighboring countries like Iran, in desperate conditions without access to basic humanitarian and legal protections.

We view this self-immolation as a cry from the depths of pain, helplessness, and injustice — a reflection of the global community’s complete failure to fulfill its humanitarian responsibilities toward Afghan refugees.

Years of war and insecurity in Afghanistan have forced millions to flee their homeland. Yet, as these individuals strive for a better life, they face closed borders, deprivation of basic rights, and threats of forced deportation. This situation fuels countless humanitarian and psychological crises, of which this heartbreaking incident is a stark example.

We urge host countries, the international community, and humanitarian organizations to urgently fulfill their human rights and humanitarian duties and improve the living conditions of Afghan refugees and migrants. Silence and indifference in the face of such tragedies is a betrayal of fundamental human rights.

The Women for Freedom Movement extends its condolences to the family of this brave pilot and all grieving families, emphasizing that human life and dignity must never be sacrificed to unjust policies and international irresponsibility.

We call on all human rights defenders and media outlets to raise their voices for these pains and not allow these tragedies to be forgotten in silence.

With respect,

Women's Movement towards Freedom