Article:
The Agarak border crossing between Armenia and Iran has become a refuge for many Iranians fleeing their homeland as the conflict with Israel intensifies. With the air heavy and dusty against a backdrop of rocky mountains, the border is not the most inviting landscape for those who have journeyed long distances.
Families and individuals, some with foreign residency or citizenship, are making their way into Armenia, driven away from Iran by the ongoing hostilities that have seen violence unfold for over a week. A father traveling from Tabriz recounted witnessing the aftermath of bombings, expressing that, “All the people are scared, every place is dangerous, it's not normal.”
The conflict surged on June 13 with Israeli attacks targeting military and nuclear sites in Iran, leading to a reported death toll of 657, according to HRANA, a human rights organization. Israel has claimed air superiority, prompting mass evacuations from populated areas, and people are now flocking to the borders to escape the looming threat.
Many reported treacherous trips, including a young Afghan who detailed his harrowing experience of leaving Tehran, stating, “Every night is like attacking, people cannot sleep because of the sounds of explosions.” For others, such as young vacationers returning to their homes, the situation has become unbearably dangerous.
Despite the potential for regime change being discussed among Israeli officials, some Iranians maintain a strong resolve. Javad, who enjoyed a brief holiday, dismissed these ideas, asserting that Israel is a formidable enemy rather than a harbinger of change.
Conversely, there are those who crossed the border back into Iran without fear, such as Ali Ansaye, who stood firm in his belief that his place is with his people, even amidst the turmoil. He challenged the narrative surrounding nuclear weapons, questioning the hypocrisy in regional politics.
As the conflict continues, the Agarak crossing remains a poignant reminder of the human impact of geopolitical strife, with the once-idyllic summer vacations for many in sudden jeopardy.
The Agarak border crossing between Armenia and Iran has become a refuge for many Iranians fleeing their homeland as the conflict with Israel intensifies. With the air heavy and dusty against a backdrop of rocky mountains, the border is not the most inviting landscape for those who have journeyed long distances.
Families and individuals, some with foreign residency or citizenship, are making their way into Armenia, driven away from Iran by the ongoing hostilities that have seen violence unfold for over a week. A father traveling from Tabriz recounted witnessing the aftermath of bombings, expressing that, “All the people are scared, every place is dangerous, it's not normal.”
The conflict surged on June 13 with Israeli attacks targeting military and nuclear sites in Iran, leading to a reported death toll of 657, according to HRANA, a human rights organization. Israel has claimed air superiority, prompting mass evacuations from populated areas, and people are now flocking to the borders to escape the looming threat.
Many reported treacherous trips, including a young Afghan who detailed his harrowing experience of leaving Tehran, stating, “Every night is like attacking, people cannot sleep because of the sounds of explosions.” For others, such as young vacationers returning to their homes, the situation has become unbearably dangerous.
Despite the potential for regime change being discussed among Israeli officials, some Iranians maintain a strong resolve. Javad, who enjoyed a brief holiday, dismissed these ideas, asserting that Israel is a formidable enemy rather than a harbinger of change.
Conversely, there are those who crossed the border back into Iran without fear, such as Ali Ansaye, who stood firm in his belief that his place is with his people, even amidst the turmoil. He challenged the narrative surrounding nuclear weapons, questioning the hypocrisy in regional politics.
As the conflict continues, the Agarak crossing remains a poignant reminder of the human impact of geopolitical strife, with the once-idyllic summer vacations for many in sudden jeopardy.
