A Turkish Border hamlet Prepares for a Potential Iranian Refugee Inflow

People in a Turkish border town have diverse opinions on the flood of Iranian refugees brought on by intensifying hostilities. While some are worried about the pressure on resources, others are getting ready to take in those escaping west.

Dogubayazit, a border village on the eastern fringe of Turkiye, is anxiously observing happenings across the line. Residents of this area, which is only 20 km from Iran, worry that they can soon find themselves in the forefront of another humanitarian disaster. The likelihood that individuals may escape westward increases along with the danger of a larger conflict. Some people in this community are more concerned with when than with if.

“We’re prepared to welcome them. People are losing their lives. We would share our bread and open our houses. We understand what it means to help as a border community and as people. War is challenging. We’ll do everything we can if families arrive,” local resident Hasan Elci remarked. A strong sense of friendliness influenced by history and geography permeates Dogubayazit.

“We’re open. Everyone claims that since we are brothers, ethnicity and religion are irrelevant. It is our responsibility to assist those in need. We’ve already done it. A store owner in Dogubayazit declared, “We’ll do it again.

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