Fact Check: "Bus driver Ferit Aktas reported that the number of Iranians arriving at the Gurbulak border crossing increased from three to five per day to at least 30 per day."
What We Know
Bus driver Ferit Aktas reported a significant increase in the number of Iranians crossing the Gurbulak border from three to five per day to at least 30 per day. This statement was made in the context of escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, which have prompted many Iranians to seek refuge in Turkey. Aktas noted that the individuals he transported expressed feelings of insecurity in Iran, stating, “We are not safe there and we are forced to come” (AP News). Observers have corroborated the increase in arrivals since Israel's military actions targeting Iran's nuclear program began (Washington Post).
Analysis
The claim made by Ferit Aktas is supported by multiple sources that report on the increase in Iranian arrivals at the Gurbulak border crossing. The Associated Press and other news outlets have documented this trend, highlighting that the number of Iranians crossing has risen sharply due to safety concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict (AP News, SFGATE, Newsday).
While Turkish officials have downplayed reports of a large-scale influx of refugees, stating that there is “no unusual movement” at the border (AP News), the anecdotal evidence provided by Aktas and other reports suggests a notable increase in daily crossings. The reliability of the sources reporting on this issue is generally high, as they include reputable news organizations like the Associated Press and the Washington Post, which adhere to journalistic standards for fact-checking and verification.
However, it is important to note that the Turkish government may have reasons to minimize the perception of a refugee crisis, potentially due to concerns about domestic stability and international relations. This could influence the official narrative, making it essential to consider both the reported experiences of individuals like Aktas and the official statements from Turkish authorities.
Conclusion
The claim that bus driver Ferit Aktas reported an increase in the number of Iranians arriving at the Gurbulak border crossing from three to five per day to at least 30 per day is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources supports this assertion, indicating a significant uptick in crossings due to the ongoing conflict and safety concerns among Iranians.
Sources
- Iranians seek temporary refuge in neighboring Turkey as conflict with ...
- How to Export to Turkey
- Iranians seek temporary refuge in neighboring Turkey as ...
- Turkey to open Iran, Iraq border gates this week to boost trade
- Iranians seek temporary refuge in neighboring Turkey as ... - SFGATE
- Iranians seek temporary refuge in neighboring Turkey as ...
- Iranian refugees cross into Turkey amid conflict - KMBC Channel 9
- AP