The Astara Border Crossing between Iran and Azerbaijan has recently experienced a surge in activity, as foreign nationals seek to leave Tehran in light of escalating military actions by the United States and Israel.
Azerbaijan opens border for evacuation
The uptick in border crossing traffic follows an announcement from the Azerbaijani government on Saturday, which stated that it would facilitate the evacuation of its citizens stranded in Iran, while also allowing foreign nationals to transit through the border. Reports indicate that approximately 500 Russian citizens have successfully crossed into Azerbaijan under this new initiative, with observers noting large groups navigating through security checkpoints.
One notable family making the journey included Pakistani nationals who traveled from the Iranian capital to Azerbaijan’s southernmost city. They brought along as many belongings as they could manage, dragging their suitcases throughout the arduous trip.
“We were living in Iran. So, we came here by road until the border region. From there, crossed the border,”
recalled Rameeza, a young girl traveling with her brother and parents. She added,
“It (the journey) was good. It was good, we came from the bus, to the border, and then, we came here. It was like a blast.”
Evacuations amid conflict
While exact numbers of individuals crossing the border are difficult to ascertain, estimates suggest that between 370 and 400 people have been safely evacuated from Iran via Azerbaijan since the border was opened. This includes over 100 Azerbaijani nationals, as well as expatriates from nearly 20 different countries, including France, Italy, Poland, Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
Sadullah Khan, Rameeza’s father, expressed his relief at successfully crossing the border with his family. He shared his experiences of the turmoil in Tehran, stating,
“I am so happy that I came here,”
and recounted the harrowing sights he encountered during the intense military operations led by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“There is so much bombardment in Tehran,”
he stated.
“Two days ago, I left Tehran and headed to Astara, and now I am safe. So, I am relieved.”