An underground Iranian disco in eastern Turkey serves as a gathering point for Iranians. Participants include men, women, and families, some of whom are Sufi dervishes, young protesters, and former prisoners.
This unique gathering point in eastern Turkey unites a diverse group of Iranians, from Sufi dervishes and young protesters to former prisoners and families.
Motivations for Relocation and Exile
Many attendees have relocated to Turkey over several years, citing motivations such as higher wages and a more open political environment compared to Iran. For some, their presence in Turkey constitutes exile, having completed prison sentences or fled the threat of imprisonment, often leaving family members behind.
Many Iranians have relocated to Turkey over time, seeking better wages and a more open political environment. For some, this relocation constitutes exile, prompted by prison sentences or the threat of imprisonment in Iran.
Personal Account: Conflict, Hope, and Homesickness
One individual, who recently departed Iran with his mother, reported experiencing intensive bombing and shelling in Tehran, his hometown. This occurred as U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran reportedly began in February.
He expressed conflicted sentiments regarding the situation, stating, "I love my country... but this government destroy[ed] my youth and my future." He also indicated feelings of hope combined with homesickness while considering his future outside of Iran.