'Afghan Girl' from famous NatGeo cover resurfaces at center of Pakistan controversy

 By 
Max Knoblauch
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Sharbat Gula, the subject of the iconic June 1985 National Geographic cover at age 12, has resurfaced after it was revealed she was living illegally in Pakistan.

The new photo comes from Gula's Pakistani national identity card, a document that a foreign national like Gula should not be able to obtain.

Gula's card has since been cancelled by the Pakistani government and, according to the Indian Express, the four officials suspected of taking bribes to grant her and her two sons the documents have been suspended.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

In April 2002, National Geographic found Gula, who had been unidentified for 17 years.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Now, nearly 15 years later, Gula's face is once again a portrait of the hardship faced by Afghani refugees in Pakistan. She was living as a refugee in Pakistan when she was first photographed in 1985.

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!