Iranians are describing life under intense US and Israeli air strikes that began on 28 February. Tehran has been heavily targeted, with attacks hitting military and political sites.
Salar, whose name has been changed, said: “The number of explosions, the destruction, what is happening – it’s unbelievable.”
Other areas have suffered as a result of the strikes. Officials report more than 160 deaths, including children, when a girls’ school was hit in Minab on Saturday. The White House said it is investigating the incident and does not target civilians.
Residents say the intensity of the attacks surpasses previous conflicts. One local compared it to last year’s 12-day war with Israel, saying: “Each day has felt like a month.”
Salar described his house shaking during a recent air strike and having to keep windows open to prevent glass from shattering.
Daily Life Under Strikes
Access to independent information is limited. International journalists are often denied visas, and internet blackouts make reporting difficult.
Most people stay indoors, only venturing out for supplies. Security forces have increased their presence, responding to unrest after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
A 25-year-old student in Tehran said: “There are checkpoints everywhere. They’re scared of their own shadows.”
Basic goods have become expensive, with long queues for petrol and bread. Shops remain mostly closed, and some ATMs are out of service, though supermarkets and bakeries stay open.
Tehran feels “empty,” one resident said, and leaving home requires urgent reasons. “On the first day, people were chanting and everyone seemed happy. But now there are police forces around.”
Threats and Caution
Salar said security forces have warned residents against speaking out. He received SMS messages threatening harsh consequences for going outside or protesting, labeling disobedient citizens as “Israeli collaborators.”
He believes anyone defying these warnings could face severe punishment, including death.
Iranians continue to live in fear while hoping for the country’s future, navigating life amid violence, shortages, and strict security.
