Deep Dive: BBC interviews Iranians crossing into Turkey who say 'Kill the regime but not people'

The interviews by BBC with Iranians crossing into Turkey reveal deep discontent with the Iranian regime among ordinary citizens, distinguishing between hatred for the government and affection for fellow countrymen. This sentiment underscores a long-standing tension in Iran where protests against authoritarian rule have periodically surged, often met with crackdowns. Historically, Iran has seen waves of emigration during periods of political repression, with Turkey serving as a key transit point due to its shared border and relatively accessible visa policies for Iranians. Geopolitically, this movement reflects Iran's internal power struggles, where the regime maintains control through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC (Iran's elite military force responsible for protecting the Islamic Republic)) while facing economic sanctions and domestic unrest. Key actors include the Iranian government under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who prioritizes regime survival, and opposition voices both inside and in the diaspora pushing for reform or overthrow. Turkey, under President Erdogan, balances hosting refugees with its own strategic interests in countering Iranian influence in Syria and managing migration flows. Cross-border implications extend to Europe, as Turkey is a gateway for migrants aiming to reach the EU, potentially straining Turkey-EU relations and humanitarian resources. Neighboring states like Azerbaijan and Iraq are affected by any instability spilling over, while global powers such as the US and Israel watch closely for opportunities to exploit regime weaknesses. Economically, Iran's brain drain through emigration hampers development, affecting remittances and skilled labor pools. Looking ahead, if such sentiments grow, they could signal escalating protests similar to the 2022 Mahsa Amini uprising, pressuring the regime but risking civil conflict. International observers must navigate supporting human rights without endorsing violence, while Turkey faces dilemmas in border management amid its own domestic politics.