Economic sanctions are often deployed as political tools, but their impact extends far beyond their intended political targets. This study examines how intensified sanctions on Iran have affected the human security of Afghan migrants, a population already facing structural vulnerabilities. Drawing on fifty-three semi-structured interviews conducted between 2015 and 2018 with Afghan migrants and experts, the research explores two critical dimensions of human security: economic stability and access to healthcare. The findings reveal that while lower- income Afghan workers in unskilled sectors managed to retain employment due to demand for cheap labor, skilled workers and business owners faced significant economic hardship. At the same time, healthcare access deteriorated as financial constraints reduced government support and international assistance failed to meet growing needs. As the Iranian government adjusted its policies to prioritize its own citizens, Afghan migrants were further marginalized. This study underscores the unintended humanitarian consequences of economic sanctions. It highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to policy design. This applies both in the implementation of sanctions and in the response of host governments. A careful approach is necessary to ensure that vulnerable migrants are not disproportionately affected.