Tehran: Iran deported more than 1.2 million undocumented immigrants over the past calendar year up to late March, according to Minister of Interior Eskandar Momeni. The minister, addressing a meeting in Tehran with governors from across Iran, stated that unauthorized immigrants in the country have taken many job opportunities.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the minister emphasized the importance of close relations, historical ties, and religious bonds with neighboring countries, but highlighted that Iran has reached its capacity in accommodating undocumented immigrants. Momeni noted that Iran, like other countries, has no choice but to deport these individuals to restore lost job opportunities.

Momeni further mentioned that Parliament will be discussing a bill proposed by the administration to establish the National Immigration Organization. This initiative aims to better regulate issues related to undocumented immigration in the country.