Rita Odafe
A significant number of individuals are currently escaping Iran due to ongoing hostilities with Israel.
Reports indicate that this situation has led to severe traffic jams on the main exit routes from the capital.
On Monday, the lines at gas stations extended for several kilometers, while some neighborhoods in the bustling city of over 15 million were noticeably quiet.
This past Saturday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a grave caution to Iran and its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stating that Tehran could face destruction if missile strikes targeting Israeli civilians persist.
Katz later expressed on X that the people of Tehran would bear the consequences for the assaults that resulted in civilian casualties in Israel.
Many fled with minimal belongings towards the eastern regions of the country, perceived as being relatively safer.
In the western parts, where numerous military sites are located near the borders, the Israeli air force has conducted numerous attacks since Friday.
The northern regions along the Caspian Sea, usually favored by tourists, have turned into refuge spots.
Zadshad, a 35-year-old educator, was among those who escaped with his family to Rasht, a coastal town.
The trip that typically requires four hours stretched to over a day due to the congested roads leaving the capital.
“Now that we’ve arrived, it’s no better. The shops are crowded and food is scarce,’’ he shared with dpa.
Accommodation prices in these safe havens surged dramatically after the conflict began.
Zadshad expressed concerns about the challenges of living away from home amidst all these difficulties: “Living in these conditions is really hard.’’
Another family headed to Turkey with their son recounted the expenses they incurred in their search for safety.
“I borrowed 5,000 euros (5,770 dollars) from a friend to travel to Istanbul to visit our daughter, hoping the situation will improve,’’ the father explained.
“Currently, we’re waiting for the traffic to lessen and considering our best options for crossing the border into Turkey.’’
However, not everyone has the means to leave the country.
One official from Tehran attempted to drive towards Azerbaijan following his brother’s advice from the U.S., embarking with his 82-year-old mother on Sunday.
“Unfortunately, due to intense traffic, fuel shortages, and my mother’s fragile health, we had to turn back.
“Now, we are biding our time for more favorable conditions to try once again,’’ he relayed.
