Türkiye has increased efforts to strengthen border security along its 295-kilometer eastern border with Iran to stop illegal crossings, migrant smuggling, and possible terrorist threats. This initiative, which started in 2021, has made good progress, with 70 percent of a protective wall in Van province already finished. The plan is part of Türkiye’s larger strategy to better manage its borders and reduce illegal activities.
Officials in the Van province have highlighted the project’s initial steps, which focused on clearing the land of mines to prepare the area for construction. The new modular concrete wall is topped with a meter-high layer of razor wire, which adds an extra layer of deterrence. To further strengthen the border’s defenses, deep trenches—measuring 4 meters wide and 4 meters deep—have been strategically placed at critical points. These measures aim to prevent unauthorized crossings and make it harder for smugglers and migrants to navigate the terrain.
In addition to physical barriers, Türkiye has deployed advanced surveillance technology, developed by its defense industry, to monitor the border more effectively. The security system includes motion sensors, thermal cameras, unmanned ground vehicles, night-vision binoculars, and optical towers, which work together to provide 24/7 monitoring. The integration of such cutting-edge technology ensures that authorities can detect and respond to security threats quickly and efficiently. Specialized personnel, including canine units trained to detect explosives and mines, are also on constant patrol to maintain heightened security.
These enhanced security measures have led to a significant reduction in irregular migration. According to reports, over 15,000 unauthorized attempts to cross the border were intercepted as of October 2024. Additionally, the security operations in the region have had notable successes in combating other forms of crime, such as drug smuggling and terrorism. In 2024, authorities captured two terrorists and seized 241 kilograms of narcotics, further highlighting the importance of this border security initiative in preventing a range of illegal activities.
Despite the challenging terrain and weather conditions, Türkiye is making significant progress in securing its eastern border. The completion of the protective wall, along with the deployment of high-tech monitoring systems, has dramatically improved the country’s ability to monitor and control its borders. The final portion of the wall is expected to be completed in 2025, which will further strengthen Türkiye’s efforts to maintain security.
As a major transit route for migrants heading towards Europe, Türkiye has become a focal point for migration-related issues. The country currently hosts over 4 million migrants, with the majority coming from Syria. By strengthening its border security, Türkiye aims to not only deter illegal migration but also address the challenges posed by human trafficking and other cross-border criminal activities.
The Turkish government’s ongoing commitment to improving border security and infrastructure is a crucial step in its efforts to manage migration flows and maintain national security. The success of these measures could have broader implications for how countries in the region address migration and smuggling.