Turkey plans buffer zone if Iran government falls

Turkey is planning to establish a buffer zone on the Iranian side of the border in the event the government in Tehran collapses. According to officials who briefed lawmakers, the plan is a worst-case scenario preparation designed to prevent a potential wave of refugees from entering Turkey. This contingency planning is occurring amid heightened tensions, including recent bloody protests in Iran and a significant US military build-up in the region. While Turkey has already reinforced its border security, the buffer zone concept indicates a willingness to take measures inside Iranian territory to manage a potential crisis.