Azerbaijani Soldiers Assist Evacuees at Astara Border Amid Iran Conflict Azerbaijani military personnel are facilitating the evacuation of individuals fleeing violence in Iran through the Astara border crossing, which connects the two nations. While the majority of those using the corridor are Azerbaijani citizens returning home, 50 foreign nationals, including diplomats from several countries, have also utilized the route to leave the conflict zone. At the border, evacuees are met with immediate aid, including water, hot tea, food such as dates, biscuits, and sandwiches, before being escorted to border control checkpoints. From there, they proceed to continue their journey back to their countries of residence. Most travelers are reportedly Azerbaijani citizens choosing to return home, though the number of foreign nationals departing Iran has reached 50 as of the latest update. This group includes 18 Saudi Arabian diplomatic staff, 6 Emiratis, 10 Qatari diplomats, 1 Italian, 4 Jordanians, a family of five from Tajikistan, 3 from Bangladesh, and 18 Chinese nationals. Other countries represented among the evacuees include Poland, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Brazil, Tunisia, and France. Authorities have emphasized that foreign nationals must obtain an evacuation code before leaving Iran, a requirement that some individuals appear unaware of. This has led to delays and confusion, as seen in the case of Erol Erman, a Turkish national who described the journey to Astara as “extremely heavy.” Erman noted that it took him two days to reach the border, far exceeding the usual six-hour travel time. He expressed concern over the chaotic situation, stating, “People are anxious and in panic. Everyone is trying to get to shelters.#iran_conflict #azerbaijani_military #astara_border #evacuees #azerbaijani_foreign_ministry
