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Türkiye's Communications Directorate on Sunday denied claims circulating on social media that Israeli intelligence agents might infiltrate the country via irregular migration at the Iranian border.
In a statement, the Directorate’s Center for Combating Disinformation (DMM) said allegations that there was “unusual congestion at the Iran-Türkiye Bazargan Border Gate and that MOSSAD agents may infiltrate the country through uncontrolled migration” are baseless..
The video footage cited in the claim was not taken at the Gurbulak Border Gate, as alleged, but at the Kapıkoy Border Gate in Van on June 3—prior to the escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel, the DMM said.
“Our Interior Ministry and relevant security units confirm that there is no unusual activity, congestion, or irregular crossings at either the Kapıkoy or Gurbulak border gates,” the statement read.
The DMM also said that coordination with Iranian authorities confirmed only 25 to 30 individuals were present on the Iranian side of the border, and noted that Türkiye’s borders are monitored 24/7 using advanced physical security systems.
The statement accused those sharing the video and claims of attempting to provoke unrest and stoke xenophobia.
“These efforts aim to mislead the public, incite fear and panic, and create a perception of insecurity,” the DMM said. “Sharing false information to cause fear among the public is a criminal offense under Article 217/A of the Turkish Penal Code.”
The clarification came as conflict between Israel and Iran entered its third day. The clashes began early Friday, June 13, when Israel launched airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, killing several senior commanders and scientists. Iran responded with missile attacks on Israeli territory.
Iran’s Health Ministry said at least 78 people were killed on the first day of Israeli strikes, with additional casualties—including children—on the second day.
Israeli authorities said 13 people have been killed and more than 370 others injured in Iranian missile attacks since Friday.
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