This wave of returns highlights the deep-rooted patriotism among Iranians, who view the conflict not as a reason to flee but as a call to protect their sovereignty and support their people.
In a striking display of national pride, Iranian citizens at Turkey's Kapıköy Border Gate in Van are crossing back into Iran, emphasizing their commitment to their homeland.
In an interview with CNN Turk, one returning Iranian expressed unwavering resolve, stating, "They are harming our country and our people. Now I want to be by their side. I want to help my country as much as I can. First my homeland and my land."
Another one shared similar sentiment, noting they had come to Turkey for tourism but chose to return early due to the war. "We had come to Turkey for sightseeing. We would have stayed a little longer, but the war broke out. That is why we are returning to our homeland. But now we want to go back to support our country and stand by our people."
Separately, reports from the border underscore that these returns are driven by a sense of duty, with one Iranian mentioning impending military service as part of their support, saying, "We returned a little early because of the war. We are going to support our country. When I go, I will join the army. My time for military service has already come. In Iran, military service lasts two years. I will do whatever I can to support my country."
In a related development, Turkish media has captured the fearless spirit of Iranians, with headlines proclaiming "Iranians Who Are Not Afraid of War Are Returning to Their Country! 'We Are Protecting Our Homeland'", reflecting a collective determination to safeguard their nation.
Meanwhile, social media and video reports reinforce this narrative, where Iranians assert there is no fleeing, but rather a choice to stand against the aggressors, as one video transcript states, "No one fled; everyone chose to return to their country and stand against Israel. Entering a war with Israel was not our choice; they started the war."
This patriotism extends beyond borders, with Iranians in Turkey viewing their return as essential to family reunions and national unity, countering any notions of escape by affirming, "There is no situation of 'escaping'."
In another angle, English-language reports align with these accounts, noting some Iranians are returning from Turkey out of concern for loved ones amid the conflict, further illustrating the familial bonds intertwined with national loyalty.
Overall, these stories connect to paint a picture of resilient Iranians whose love for their country propels them homeward, embodying a unified front against external threats.