On July 18, Germany deported 81 Afghan men with criminal convictions and failed asylum applications to Kabul. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt framed this as fulfilling a coalition agreement to deport criminals from Afghanistan and Syria. The deportations, facilitated by Qatar, represent a "policy shift" according to Dobrindt, aiming to pressure countries to take back their citizens. While Germany maintains it has not officially recognized the Taliban government, the Taliban's participation in the deportations is seen by some as a potential step toward diplomatic recognition.

Despite Chancellor Friedrich Merz stating that diplomatic recognition is "out of the question," the deportations have prompted debate. Experts like Conrad Schetter from the Bonn International Center for Conflict Studies suggest that other countries might follow Russia's lead and formally recognize the Taliban government, potentially influencing Western policy. Conversely, Afghanistan expert Nicole Deitelhoff criticized the deportations, raising concerns about the risk of torture and inhumane treatment for deportees, and the negative impact on Germany's international reputation, especially considering the termination of an admission program for former Afghan aid workers.

Impact Statement: Germany's deportation policy toward Afghanistan creates a complex situation, potentially impacting its international relations, particularly with countries recognizing the Taliban, and raising human rights concerns.