A steady stream of Iranians is crossing the border into Armenia, motivated by fears and political aspirations. At the Agarak border crossing, Mariam, a pensioner, shared her exhaustion after a long journey with her husband. "People want regime change," she stated, reflecting a shared sentiment among travelers. While conditions in Iran remain challenging, she noted that daily life continues, with shops and banks operating.
The situation highlights the complexities within Iran, where many dual nationals spoke on behalf of various opinions, shedding light on a discontented populace. Recent military actions by the US, including airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, have further fueled discussions about regime change. However, a significant portion of Iranians remain supportive of their leaders, revealing a division among the populace over the unfolding events.
The Agarak crossing, surrounded by watchtowers and stark landscapes, has seen an increase in arrivals. A Canadian diplomat noted a notable uptick in individuals, with 80 crossing within just an hour. However, conditions are not conducive to a mass exodus, as many travelers prefer to maintain their privacy due to security concerns impacting their families back in Iran.
Among those fleeing, Alenoosh expressed her feeling that "time is up for the regime," echoing a sentiment of fear and frustration among many. A family of Canadian-Iranians described Iran as a vast but troubled country, with some areas seemingly unaffected by political strife. One father, now living in Germany, voiced his yearning for change, criticizing those who sought to avoid supporting military intervention yet complained about their government's failings.
As the situation continues to evolve, President Trump's military actions may serve as a catalyst for increased departures from Iran. The coming days will be crucial in determining the extent of movement across the border, as new decisions from global leaders could substantially affect the plight of those seeking safety from political turmoil in their homeland.
