Turkmenistan has opened four additional border checkpoints to facilitate the evacuation of foreign citizens from Iran, according to a statement from the Russian Embassy in Ashgabat, Turkmenportal.tm reports.
The newly opened crossings are "Artyk–Lotfabad," "Gaudan–Bajgeran," "Akyayla–Incheburun," and "Altyn Asyr–Incheburun." These operate in addition to the previously functioning "Serakhs" checkpoint.
Citizens of all Central Asian countries, as well as Russia, can exit Iran via Turkmenistan's territory. The exact number of evacuees remains unknown, but it is estimated that over 100,000 citizens from Central Asia and Russia may be present in Middle Eastern countries. Some have already reached their home countries through Oman, as major airports in the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar are currently non-operational.
Earlier on Monday, Turkmenistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
March 3, 2026