Turkey plans to establish a “safe zone” along its border with Iran to prevent a mass refugee influx if the Iranian government collapses, according to Middle East Eye.
Senior officials from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed members of parliament in a closed-door session that Ankara is preparing for various scenarios related to the ongoing unrest in Iran. Officials emphasized their commitment to preventing a new wave of refugees from crossing into Turkey, describing measures that go beyond standard border controls.
The Turkish Ministry of Defense earlier announced enhanced security along the 560-kilometer Iran-Turkey border. Measures include 203 electro-optical surveillance towers, 43 elevator-equipped towers, a 380-kilometer modular concrete wall, and 553 kilometers of defensive trenches.
Officials told MPs that recent protests in Iran have resulted in approximately 4,000 deaths and 20,000 injuries, highlighting the scale of the unrest.
Foreign intervention remains a concern. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged the United States to use diplomatic channels rather than military action, amid reports that Washington is considering targeted strikes against senior Iranian officials. The U.S. recently deployed fighter jets, air defense systems, and naval vessels to the region, and the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln entered Middle Eastern waters on Monday, heightening Ankara’s concerns.
Turkish sources said the country would only accept refugees in immediate humanitarian need. The presence of at least 12 million Azeri Turks in Iran could complicate these plans, according to officials.
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