A steady flow of Iranians has been making their way on foot into Armenia in recent days, fueled by a growing desire for regime change. Mariam, a pensioner who recently crossed the Aras River into Armenia with her husband, expressed concerns about the situation in Iran. "I've walked a long way and I'm tired," she said, but noted that daily life continues despite the worries. As the internet remains disrupted and foreign journalists are largely barred from Iran, the border crossing offers a rare glimpse into the sentiments of those fleeing.
The notion of regime change has gained traction, particularly in light of U.S. airstrikes against Iranian nuclear sites, an idea previously echoed by President Trump. Many of those interviewed at the border endorsed the idea of overthrowing the current government, although there exists a diversity of opinion regarding foreign intervention and its implications. The agitated atmosphere at the border, characterized by groaning taxis and busy police presence, reflected the desperation and hope of those crossing.
Witnessing the border activity was a Canadian diplomat, who reported seeing around 80 individuals arrive within an hour, hinting at a potentially increasing trend. Yet, this movement does not signify an exodus as vehicles continued to travel in both directions. Many departing individuals hesitated to share their stories due to concerns for the safety of their family members still in Iran.
Alenoosh, a dual national, shared her distress over the regime’s control. "Everybody is afraid and everybody has had enough of the regime," she lamented, recounting her troubled experiences from her home in Iran. Meanwhile, a Canadian-Iranian family portrayed a contrasting narrative of normalcy existing in some parts of the country amid the turmoil.
An anonymous Iranian father now residing in Germany articulated a critical perspective on the regime, advocating for external military intervention despite the risks involved. He deemed the current regime’s downfall as imminent, willingly accepting the harsh realities of conflict for potential change.
President Trump's decision to conduct military strikes appears to have emboldened many Iranians to contemplate leaving their homeland, marking a turning point for those who possess the means for asylum. The unfolding days will form a crucial chapter for both U.S. and Iranian leadership, potentially impacting the numbers of people seeking safety across borders. As Iranian citizens navigate this unprecedented moment, the future remains uncertain, yet deeply intertwined with the international response to their plight.
