However, the dominant and well-documented trend is actually the opposite: the mass expulsion of millions of Afghans from Iran, alongside Iranian civilians fleeing to other countries.

According to the reports, several developments point to contingency planning among Iran’s leadership. Senior officials, including Mohammad Ebrahim Taherian-Fard from the Foreign Ministry, are said to have held covert meetings with Taliban representatives to explore potential escape routes and safe passage into Afghanistan in the event of regime collapse.

Intelligence assessments also point to a “Plan B” for Supreme Leader Khamenei Jr.  and his inner circle. This reportedly includes pre-arranged exit routes from Tehran, as well as the transfer of assets and cash abroad to ensure a secure transition if needed. At the same time, amid the ongoing war, Khamenei himself has reportedly been relocated to a secure location outside Tehran, while other senior officials have been moved to heavily protected underground facilities.