Ankara, Turkey. Turkey is examining alternative scenarios for managing a potential crisis on its eastern border amid growing concern over instability in Iran, focusing on preventing a new wave of migration and the possibility of establishing a buffer zone.
Closed briefing to lawmakers
Senior officials from the Turkish foreign ministry briefed members of parliament in a closed session on possible developments in Iran, including scenarios of severe destabilisation and even government collapse.
Sources familiar with the briefing said Ankara is considering measures beyond routine border control aimed at stopping large-scale population movements before they reach Turkish territory.
Buffer-zone intent raised, no official confirmation
There has been no official confirmation of plans to establish a safe or buffer zone, but participants in the meeting said the intention was clear.
One source said officials stressed that “whatever can be done on the Iranian side of the border should be done” to prevent a migration crisis, while another said Turkey is prepared to act beyond conventional border guarding practices if required.
Security measures along the Iran border
The Turkish defence ministry has announced enhanced security measures along the 560 kilometre border with Iran, including expanded surveillance and physical barriers.
Ankara says border areas are monitored using identification systems, drones and aircraft as part of efforts to detect and deter irregular crossings.
Reports of unrest inside Iran
Turkish media reported that lawmakers were also briefed on the scale of unrest inside Iran, with officials citing figures of around 4,000 deaths and 20,000 injuries during recent anti-regime protests.
The unrest has been driven by soaring inflation and the collapse of the national currency, and has been met with force by the authorities, alongside reports of widespread internet shutdowns.
Fidan opposes foreign military intervention
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has publicly opposed any foreign military intervention in Iran, urging the United States to pursue diplomacy rather than force.
What steps should Turkey prioritise to prevent a migration surge if instability in Iran worsens?