As Iran continues to reel from one of the deadliest waves of anti‑regime protests in years, with thousands killed and broad unrest sweeping the country, another scene played out just across the border: some of Iran’s wealthiest citizens were spotted partying in Turkish nightclubs while the crisis raged at home.
In Van, a Turkish city around 96 km from Iran’s border, reporters saw well‑heeled Iranians—some believed to be connected with or benefiting from Iran’s ruling establishment—socialising in bars and clubs, seemingly unconcerned by events in their homeland.
One Iranian at the club described the stark contrast between the scenes in Turkey and the turmoil back home. “These people benefit from the regime. They left Iran for now, because they were worried about staying there. Here, they can feel safe,” the person told The Telegraph, speaking anonymously out of fear of reprisals.
Another person said wealthy Iranians had used their resources to flee the uncertainty in Iran and spend time—and money—in Turkey’s nightlife spots. “They have made a lot of money from their businesses in Iran, and then they come here to spend it,” the individual added.
Hard reality of protests in Iran
While some Iranians enjoy a night out abroad, protests in cities across Iran have been met with a brutal government crackdown, including widespread use of live ammunition and mass arrests. Rights groups and activist networks have reported thousands of deaths since protests began in late December amid frustration over economic hardship and political repression.
Officials have disputed the highest estimates, but even state figures acknowledge “several thousand people” have been killed.
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The protests were sparked by worsening economic conditions and quickly evolved into broader anti‑regime demands, uniting demonstrators with chants and slogans demanding systemic change.
The situation has also led to increased movement across the Iran‑Turkey border. Dozens of Iranians, including families and individuals, have crossed into Turkey’s Van province, in some cases carrying personal belongings, as they seek safety amid unrest at home.
Meanwhile, many Iranians have also used brief trips into Turkey to access the internet during Iran’s prolonged communications blackout, which disrupted online connectivity at the height of the protests.
