Hamilton Physician Flees Tehran Amid Escalating Iran-Israel Air Conflict
Dr. panid Borhanjoo, a medical professional from Hamilton, Canada, endured a perilous journey to escape the intensifying airstrikes in Tehran as tensions between Iran and Israel surged. His passage back home was fraught with anxiety and uncertainty amid the chaos enveloping the city.
Urgent Flight from Tehran to Toronto
while visiting family and staying with his grandmother near Tehran, Dr. Borhanjoo was abruptly awakened by an influx of messages reporting that Israel had launched a sudden military assault targeting Iranian nuclear sites and strategic military installations. This unexpected offensive ignited immediate retaliatory strikes between both nations.
The conflict has inflicted heavy tolls: Iranian officials report over 230 deaths and more than 1,300 injuries resulting from Israeli air raids since hostilities escalated last week. Meanwhile, Israeli sources confirm at least 30 fatalities and upwards of 600 wounded due to missile attacks launched by Iran.
Navigating Dangerous Borders Under Fire
With commercial flights canceled amid widespread travel disruptions, Dr. Borhanjoo confronted mounting obstacles in securing safe passage out of Iran. Explosions reverberated nearby as surveillance drones patrolled overhead-moments that heightened his fears for survival.
Resolute to escape safely, he arranged ground transportation across multiple borders: initially hiring a driver who transported him toward Iran’s border with Turkey; then another driver who facilitated his crossing into Turkish territory where airports remained operational. From Istanbul airport, he boarded a flight bound for Toronto.
Civilians Caught in Mass Exodus amidst Chaos
The escalating violence has triggered severe congestion on highways leading out of Tehran as thousands scramble to flee before further bombardments occur. Yet many residents lack the financial means or logistical options necessary for such an evacuation.
“Some people might have resources; maybe they can leave,” said Amir Hossein Mousavi,a local unable to secure safe exit routes himself. “For most of us? It feels impossible.”
The Emotional Toll Beyond Physical Borders
communication with relatives remaining inside Iran remains sporadic due to internet blackouts reportedly imposed by Iranian authorities aiming to disrupt covert operations allegedly linked to Israeli intelligence activities.
“When my mother embraced me goodbye she whispered ‘If this is our final moment together-I love you.’ That memory will stay etched in my heart forever,” Dr. Borhanjoo shared emotionally upon reaching Canada’s safety.
A Call for Calm Amid Rising Violence
“Iran is an remarkably beautiful country now engulfed in violent upheaval,” he reflected somberly. “My deepest hope is that all my loved ones-and every Iranian-find security soon.”
