Recently, a significant number of Iranians have been crossing into Armenia, seeking safety and expressing their hopes for a change in their government. "People want regime change," Mariam, a pensioner, shared, resting after a tiring journey across the Aras River that delineates Iran's border with Armenia. She noted that despite worries in Iran, daily life continues; stores and banks remain operational amid the unrest.
Despite the challenges posed by internet disruptions and limited foreign media access in Iran, those who spoke at the Agarak crossing mostly supported the idea of political change. Many travelers held dual citizenships, offering a fragmented perspective on public sentiment in Iran. The suggestion of regime change has gained traction, particularly after recent U.S. bombings of Iranian nuclear sites.
At the border, the atmosphere is filled with conflicting emotions, as residents express both fears and hopes. Alenoosh, 63, born to Armenian parents in Iran, claimed, "Everybody has had enough of the regime." Several families reported fleeing the unrest, weighing the risks of remaining in Iran against the uncertain future ahead.
As the conflict escalates, some citizens have begun to think that intervention from outside countries is necessary for true transformation. One father from Iran, currently based in Germany, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Everything is broken and damaged," and voiced his support for military action for the sake of future change.
With the current uncertainty, many are left pondering what comes next. As global leaders make decisions that impact the situation, more Iranians may seek refuge at the border in search of a safer future.
