Iran restricts Turkish truckers at Esendere Border, causing long delays

Hundreds of Turkish truck drivers are reportedly stranded at the Türkiye-Iran border, facing extreme cold and food shortages as Iranian authorities reportedly restrict their passage.

The blockade at the Esendere Border Gate has resulted in a 10-kilometer-long queue of trucks, with drivers waiting for more than two weeks.

Turkish truckers stranded for 15 days

Approximately 300 Turkish truck drivers have been stuck on the Iranian side of the border for 15 days, struggling with harsh winter conditions.

Temperatures have dropped to -20 degrees Celsius, forcing drivers to keep their vehicles running to stay warm. Many have voiced concerns over their deteriorating conditions and the lack of an immediate resolution.

Videos recorded by the stranded drivers show a long line of trucks, with drivers claiming that Iranian vehicles are being allowed to pass while Turkish trucks remain halted.

“From here to Türkiye, it’s all Turkish trucks. Not a single Turkish truck is moving. We are in a desperate situation,” one driver said.

Political reaction to the situation

The ongoing delays have drawn political attention in Türkiye. IYI (Good) Party Aydin Deputy Omer Karakas criticized Iran’s handling of the situation, calling it an act of unjustified restriction.

“Iran is making Turkish truck drivers suffer. They are under both physical and psychological pressure. It is unacceptable that no solution has been found in 15 days,” Karakas said.

He also pointed to what he described as arbitrary practices by Iranian border authorities and the lack of a strong response from Turkish officials.

Harsh weather and logistical struggles

With freezing temperatures and limited supplies, the situation has become increasingly difficult for the stranded drivers. Many are relying on the heat from their trucks’ engines for warmth while facing food shortages.

The prolonged waiting period has also disrupted trade routes between Türkiye and Iran, causing logistical challenges for exporters and importers alike.

Calls for resolution

Industry representatives and truckers are urging both governments to take immediate steps to resolve the crisis. They have called on Turkish authorities to engage in diplomatic talks with Iran to ease restrictions and allow the free flow of trade.

Esendere Border Gate got a significant importance for Türkiye from geopolitical and geostrategic perspectives. Facilitating transportation with the cities of Urmia, Tabriz, and Tehran in Iran, it greatly contributes to Türkiye’s trade with Iran and the economy of region.

The crossing has four lanes for truck crossings, with two entry and two exit lanes, and two lanes for cars and buses, with one entry and one exit lane.