EXCLUSIVE: Canada, France, Germany Send Diplomats to Armenian Border to Help Citizens Flee Iran
- The Armenian Report Team
- 34 minutes ago
- 2 min read
As tensions continue in the Middle East, between Iran and Israel, Armenia’s southern Syunik region has become a critical lifeline for people trying to escape the danger. The Armenian Report’s Ani Khachatryan spent three days on the ground at the Armenia-Iran border crossing and witnessed firsthand the flow of people seeking safety. Among them were not only Iranian citizens but also many foreign nationals trying to return to their home countries.
Diplomats from Germany, France, and Canada were also at the border, having arrived in Armenia to assist their citizens trapped in Iran due to the ongoing conflict. These diplomats, who work for their countries’ foreign ministries, came to Armenia’s Meghri checkpoint in Syunik province, one of the few land routes still open between Iran and the outside world.
On the first day of the diplomatic effort, Armenia’s National Security Service (NSS) tried to block all media from filming, including journalists from The Armenian Report, and even told the diplomats to leave. But after talks with Armenia’s Foreign Ministry, the diplomats were allowed to remain at the site and continue their work. This cooperation ensured they could enter the checkpoint and monitor the situation on the ground—where people fleeing conflict were finally stepping into a safer environment.
At the border, diplomats greeted their citizens with concern and compassion. They asked what the individuals needed—whether they had transportation to Yerevan, Armenia’s capital, and if they required immediate assistance. In one moving moment, Canadian diplomats paid for transportation for their citizens who had no money. When asked if they would cover the cost, one Canadian official responded, “Of course, it is important that they are in a safe place.” The diplomats explained that once safely returned to Canada, the individuals would later receive a receipt to reimburse the government, showing a balance of care and accountability.
The work of these diplomats at the Armenia-Iran border showed the human side of diplomacy during a time of growing danger. It also shows Armenia’s vital role in the region—not only as a neighbor of Iran but also as a country that offers a safe corridor during times of crisis. While the international spotlight focuses on larger geopolitical battles, this small corner of Syunik is quietly providing safety, structure, and support to those in need.
The Armenian Report's coverage shows the importance of press freedom, especially during emergencies. Despite attempts to push journalists out, The Armenian Report was able to document the real situation at the border—a story not just about diplomats and foreign nationals, but also about Armenia’s growing importance as a safe transit hub in a troubled region.
