Upon crossing Armenia’s southern Meghri border checkpoint from Iran, most people immediately connect to the Internet to check war news and contact loved ones.

Since the U.S., Israel vs. Iran conflict began on February 28, air travel has been suspended, but only a few dozen people per day are crossing at Meghri. Some Iranians leave for Armenia seeking safety, while others cross into Iran to reunite with family, uncertain of their next destination. Arrivals come from cities like Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz, including some foreigners who had been in Iran for work or tourism.

The checkpoint mainly serves truck traffic between Armenia and Iran, with fewer passenger cars due to dangerous roads and security concerns that lead many to relocate within Iran rather than leave the country.