Iranians Flee to Turkiye as War Toll Crosses 500
Kapikoy gate sees movement after initial border restrictions
- Over 500 killed in US-Israel strikes on Iran
- Civilians report panic, fuel shortages in Tehran
- Iranians begin crossing into Turkiye via Kapikoy
- Cargo movement continues under tight control
GG News Bureau
ANKARA/TEHRAN, 2nd March: Many Iranians are fleeing the escalating war in their country and crossing into Turkiye as US and Israeli strikes on Iran have killed more than 500 people, according to reports.
Reuters reported scenes of fear and uncertainty, with civilians describing widespread panic and long queues at petrol stations. The border between Iran and Turkiye is managed through three main gates. Turkish authorities had earlier said that day-trip crossings through these gates were mutually suspended.
Initially, Istanbul allowed only Turkish citizens and third-country nationals to enter, and eyewitnesses told Reuters that Iranian nationals were being prevented from crossing. However, by Monday afternoon, crossings resumed at the Kapikoy Border Gate, where Iranians were seen entering Turkish territory.
Several fleeing civilians described deteriorating conditions in Tehran. One Iranian told Reuters that the situation in the capital was “already difficult,” citing bombings and widespread fear. “Everyone is scared,” the person said, though adding that ordinary civilians had not been directly targeted.
Another Iranian, an Azeri from Qazvin near the Turkish border, said daily life continued in parts of the country but frequent bombing in military areas was affecting residents. “People have withdrawn to themselves, everyone is in their homes,” he said, adding that explosions were heard from nearby areas.
Reuters reported that families carrying suitcases were seen moving toward the border despite cold conditions. While there were no immediate food shortages reported, fuel scarcity remained a major concern. “The only concern people have is getting fuel for their trips, near and far,” one resident said.
Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat said Iran was allowing its citizens to return home via Turkiye, while commercial cargo transit at all three border gates was continuing under controlled conditions. He added that Turkish authorities were operating on high alert to ensure uninterrupted border services and trade flows.
The movement of civilians across the frontier signals rising anxiety among Iranians as the conflict intensifies, raising fears of a broader regional crisis.
