Shirin Talebi reached Turkey from Iran, eagerly awaiting her family from Tehran at the same border post. They plan to stay in Turkey for a short period due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. Reports suggest that the number of people crossing over has risen since Israel launched strikes against Iran’s nuclear sites and officials. However, Turkish authorities deny rumors of a widespread refugee influx via social media.
Turkey, which shares a 348-mile boundary with Iran, is deeply worried about the intensifying Israel-Iran tensions. There’s concern that a prolonged conflict may threaten Turkey’s security, disrupt energy supplies, and trigger a refugee crisis. Talebi, speaking at the Gurbulak-Bazargan crossing after her journey from Urmia, expressed safety concerns for her family, noting, “They are bombing. My children have small children of their own.” She hopes the situation resolves within months so they can return home.
The conflict has seen Israel attacked by Iran with ballistic missiles in response. In an effort to mediate, the Turkish President proposed acting as a “facilitator” in renewed talks between the U.S. and Iran, stalled recently. In his address after a Cabinet meeting, he criticized Israel for risking its future with military actions and urged for negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
The President also condemned actions in Gaza, where Israeli forces continue to battle Hamas following an October 2023 assault on Israel. He accused Israel of being oblivious to its mistakes, warning it might be too late once it realizes them.
Though Turkey has not released official figures on Iranian arrivals, its communications office maintains there’s no unusual movement at the border. Iranians can enter Turkey visa-free for tourism and stay up to 90 days. At Gurbulak, bus driver Ferit Aktas noticed a rise in Iranians visiting, saying, “Now there are at least 30 Iranians in my vehicle per day.” Many express a desire to move to Europe via Turkey.
Mejid Dehimi, another traveler from Umria, visiting Turkey for a short break, voiced his support for Iranian leadership and determination against Israel. “We are not afraid of death,” he stated. “We will stand against Israel until our last breath and for as long as our lives allow.”