Turkmenistan heightens border security amid Iranian protests

Authorities in Turkmenistan have ramped up security measures in regions bordering Iran in response to ongoing mass protests, 

In several border areas, stringent checks on vehicles and individuals have been implemented, while access to the internet has been significantly curtailed, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The Turkmen authorities are reportedly concerned about the potential spillover effects of the unrest in Iran on domestic stability and have devised a special contingency plan. Sources indicate that possible measures could include further internet restrictions, tighter monitoring of residents in border regions, and preventive gatherings in educational institutions to ensure public compliance and awareness.

Demonstrations began on December 28 over the economy in the capital Tehran and have spread to 186 cities and all 31 provinces.

The protests have grown into the largest in years, with calls for an end to the Islamic Republic and rule of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The protests led to a government crackdown, with at least 10,600 people reportedly arrested and

496 protesters killed, Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) stated.

Medical staff in Iran have described hospitals overwhelmed with dead and injured patients.

By Vafa Guliyeva