A resident in Tehran describes the city as nearly deserted, with daily indiscriminate bombings as the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran enters its seventh day, spreading across the Middle East and causing more than 1,400 deaths.
President Donald Trump has pledged to continue the fight until Iran surrenders unconditionally, aiming to rebuild the country economically and make it stronger than ever.
While some Iranians abroad have shown support for the war, not everyone shares the same sentiment. In a communication bypassing Iran’s blackout, a Tehran resident critical of both the regime and the war spoke with CBC Radio’s As It Happens host Nil Kӧksal.
Due to safety concerns, the resident’s identity is being protected by CBC.
Here are excerpts from the interview:
Current Situation in Tehran:
The resident recalls a recent blast while at work, describing the difficulty of protecting children amidst the chaos. He notes the city’s devastation and constant threat of being targeted, leading many to flee Tehran.
Expressing love for Tehran despite being away for a decade, he finds it heartbreaking to witness the city in turmoil.
Personal Motivation to Stay:
Despite the danger, the resident chose to return to Tehran to stand with his city and not be away while it is under attack.
Views on the War:
He criticizes the renewed use of force for regime change in the Middle East, expressing disappointment in the ongoing conflict and the impact on innocent lives.
Regarding differing opinions within the Iranian community, he acknowledges the regime’s oppressive nature but emphasizes that the current situation has spiraled beyond civilian control.
Hopes for Change:
Reflecting on past movements for societal progress, he calls for an end to violence, highlighting the need to halt the war and regain agency over Iran’s future.
Personal Struggle:
Feeling disillusioned by the current state of affairs, he expresses frustration at the international community’s silence and the lack of leadership against destructive actions.
-
‘This is wrong,’ Lebanese resident says as hundreds of thousands displaced amid Israeli strikes
- <a class="cardWrapper-u5T0r cardWrapper-_487P noPadding