From Tehran to Canada via Turkey: One Iranian's bid to flee the war - Video

Homa, 40, was weighed down by two suitcases and a rucksack, her face etched with exhaustion as she crossed the Turkish border. She had just completed a gruelling journey from Tehran, where she had been visiting family when the Israel-Iran war erupted. The conflict had left her stranded after Iran closed its airspace in response to a devastating Israeli bombing campaign.

Working as a business analyst in Canada, Homa had been forced to find an alternative route out of Tehran. She travelled 850 kilometres by bus to the Kapikoy border crossing in eastern Turkey, a journey that took four long days. "The situation in Tehran was terrifying," she said, recounting how the sounds of incoming missiles had kept her awake for five nights. "I had to relocate within the city just to find some peace."

Meanwhile, her family had fled to Shahriar, enduring hours of traffic in search of safety. "They're not safe. I'm worried about them," she added, her voice heavy with concern. Iran had reported at least 224 deaths from Israeli attacks, while Israel confirmed 24 casualties from Tehran's retaliation.

Despite the harrowing journey, Homa was not yet home. After the border, her route would take her through Erzurum, Istanbul, Dubai, and finally back to Toronto. "I just want to get home," she sighed as she prepared for the next leg of her journey, a five-hour bus ride to Erzurum.