Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Alibek Bakayev has said that Kazakhstan has contingency plans in place in case of a potential wave of refugees.

His comments come amid growing tensions in the Middle East and questions about whether ethnic Kazakhs living in Iran and neighboring countries might seek assistance from Astana, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

No Official Requests So Far

Bakayev stressed that since the start of the conflict, the Foreign Ministry has not received any official appeals from ethnic Kazakhs residing in Iran or other countries in the region.

“At this point, it is important to note that these are citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran. As we have stated before, Kazakhstan follows a policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other states. Theoretically, if citizens apply, we are talking about their nationality as citizens, regardless of ethnicity,” he explained.

Refugee Status - Possible Under the Law

When asked whether such individuals could be granted refugee status, Bakayev said this is possible - provided they meet the established legal criteria and follow the required procedures.

Journalists also pressed on whether Kazakhstan is prepared for a potential refugee influx.

“Of course, such protocols exist. Government agencies, within their competencies, always know what actions to take. However, I emphasize once again: there have been no such requests and no such signals. The situation remains under our control,” he concluded.