Iranians Seek Turkish Internet Amid National Blackouts
Iranians Briefly Cross Into Turkey to Bypass Internet Restrictions
The kapikoy border crossing in Turkey’s Van province has seen an increase in Iranian nationals making short trips, not to seek asylum, but to access the internet amid ongoing communication shutdowns in Iran.These crossings began after Iran largely restricted internet access on January 8, 2026, following widespread protests and a government crackdown.
While some sporadic connectivity reportedly resumed by Saturday, January 17, 2026, with limited internet and text messaging services returning briefly in certain areas, many Iranians are utilizing Turkey’s visa-free entry policy as a workaround.
Travelers are financing these trips by reselling goods. Items like cigarettes and tea, inexpensive in Iran, fetch higher prices in Turkey, providing a means to cover travel costs.
“My work depends on the internet,so I am forced to come here to access it and do my work,and then return to Iran to see how conditions develop,” said Sami Ranjbar,a tehran resident who returned to Iran on Friday,January 16,2026,after spending four days in Van managing his e-commerce buisness.
“If the internet is restored, we will stay, if not, we will be forced to come out again to use the internet, and go to neighboring countries or elsewhere.”
Ali, 37, another Iranian national, also crossed the border for similar reasons.