‘Every day feels like a month’: Iranians Describe Life Under Constant US-Israeli Strikes
The number of explosions, the destruction, what is happening – it’s unbelievable, says Salar, whose name has been altered for safety. Since the strikes began on February 28, Iran’s capital, Tehran, has faced relentless attacks as the US and Israel aim to target military and political sites to undermine the Islamic regime. The collateral damage, however, has affected numerous regions.
– Tragic toll: Iranian officials report over 160 fatalities, including children, after a girls’ school was struck in Minab on Saturday. The White House is investigating the incident while maintaining that civilians are not the intended targets.
– Unprecedented experiences: What we are enduring now surpasses what we faced during the 12-day war, one Tehran resident shared with BBC Persian, referencing last year’s conflict between Israel and Iran. Many Iranians express growing fears for their families, while others perceive a weakened regime and remain hopeful for the future.
Life Under Constant Assault
The initial wave of strikes resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, yet bombardments have shown no signs of abating. Each day has felt like a month, Salar recounts. The volume of attacks is overwhelming. He recalls a recent airstrike that rattled his entire home, forcing him to leave windows open to prevent shattering glass.
– Information blackout: International news organizations struggle to gain access to Iran, severely limiting information flow within the country. Internet outages exacerbate communication challenges, leaving most individuals confined indoors, venturing out only for necessities. Increased security presence in response to public dissent has added to the palpable tension.
– Heightened security measures: Checkpoints are everywhere. They’re scared of their own shadows, notes a 25-year-old student from Tehran. “We’re waiting for the moment when we can finally express our victory.”
Residents also report soaring prices for essential goods like eggs and potatoes, as well as extensive queues for petrol and bread. Despite the grim situation, bakeries and supermarkets remain operational, although many shops are closed.
– Atmosphere of fear: Salar speaks of intimidation from security forces against dissent. “Daily SMS threats warn us that any public protest will result in severe consequences,” he states. “Messages even suggest that protestors will be labeled as Israeli collaborators, implying dire repercussions for noncompliance.”
Impact Beyond Tehran
BBC Persian also spoke to Kaveh, another individual whose name has been changed for anonymity, residing in Zanjan, approximately 275 kilometers (170 miles) northeast of Tehran, which has also faced bombardment. “In the first three days, we were heavily bombed,” he recalls. “Fighter jets are a constant presence overhead, with smoke columns making the sky perpetually cloudy—a simultaneously beautiful and horrifying sight.”
With the threats escalating, Salar made the decision to send his parents north in search of safety, despite uncertainty about which areas might be secure. My mother was in a terrible state—terrified, he shared, describing the ongoing strikes as more terrifying than those endured during the eight-year Iran-Iraq war.
Kaveh emphasizes the struggle to maintain contact with loved ones amid internet disruptions. “My connection was cut off on the first day of attacks, leaving me offline for two days.” Using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access blocked content, he tries to relay updates to friends outside of Iran who are anxious about their families’ well-being.
Mixed Reactions to Leadership Changes
In the midst of chaos and war, gauging the public reaction to Khamenei’s death proves difficult. While some welcomed the news, others took part in organized mourning led by government authorities. Kaveh expressed his initial disbelief when hearing about Khamenei’s demise. “I always anticipated that moment would bring happiness, but it didn’t. Years of struggle have been lost, and his removal felt infuriating.”
Saleh noted the heightened security atmosphere following the attack. “The city is still charged with tension and fear.” Both men contemplate the uncertain future. “I doubt any of us will emerge unchanged from this experience,” Salar pointedly remarks. “Those outside of Iran really don’t understand the gravity of what we are living through. I hope they never have to.”
Kaveh believes the conflict may last longer than anticipated but insists that his hope remains resolute. “Even so, my optimism grows stronger with each passing day.” He concludes with a poignant thought: “Without this operation, something worse would have inevitably occurred. With it, there’s still a chance for life and a tomorrow.”
Conclusion
The ongoing situation in Iran, with its relentless strikes, is a stark reminder of the personal toll of geopolitical conflicts. As the people navigate life under constant US-Israeli strikes, their stories reflect resilience and an enduring hope for a better future amidst overwhelming challenges.