Stuck in Turkey: Stranded Iranians Seeking to Return Home via Land Routes Due to Middle East Conflict
Iranian nationals seeking departure from Turkey opt for overland journeys due to flight restrictions and difficulties.
In the wake of the escalating tension between Iran and Israel, the suspension of airspace in the Middle East has put a considerable number of individuals from the region in a tight spot while stranded in Turkey. Keen on making their way back home, they are opting for land travel routes.
Here’s a lowdown on the current situation at Kapıköy Border Gate in Van, Turkey:
Contextual Insights
- Airspace Restrictions: The aftermath of Israel's June 13 attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities and subsequent Iranian missile retaliations led to the temporary closure of airspace in several countries, including Turkey, until June 15 [2]. Despite no official announcement regarding an extension, the airspace continues to remain under stress [2].
- Land Crossings: Being left with no other viable option, those stranded in Turkey have turned to land travel as their means to return to their home countries [2]. The Kapıköy Border Gate in the Saray district of Van's eastern province has become a major transit hub for those undertaking this journey [2].
Highlights at Kapıköy Border Gate
- Increased Demand: The sudden surge in demand for overland travel has left many Iranians waiting patiently at tourism company offices, attempting to secure transportation back to their homeland [2]. To cater to the growing need, operators are scheduling additional trips to help these individuals [2].
- Coordination Efforts: Although Iraqis face challenges, they have managed to secure special visas to traverse into Iraq through the Ibrahim Khalil Border Gate, thanks to the constant coordination between the Iraqi Embassy in Ankara and Turkish authorities [2].
All in all, the Kapıköy Border Gate has evolved into a vital passage for individuals stranded in Turkey due to the airspace restrictions triggered by the ongoing Middle East conflict.
In the current circumstances, due to the temporary closure of airspace in several countries, including Turkey, individuals from the Middle East are bolstering their efforts to return home. Consequently, they are relying on land travel routes, with the Kapıköy Border Gate in Van becoming a key transit hub for this purpose. Stranded Iranians, in particular, are flocking to tourism companies in the area, hoping to secure transport back to their homeland as the demand for overland travel surges.