Smoke continues to hang in the air this Saturday in late February, following a morning that began with a joint Israeli-American attack. But this time, Iranians are not experiencing it solely as an act of war, but also as a long-awaited glimpse of the future.
A Potential Turning Point
The attack is being viewed as an opportunity to overcome a long-standing crisis, offering a potential path out of economic, political, cultural, and social stagnation. Crucially, it represents a possible turning point after the deep scars left by the brutal repression of protests, particularly the movement in January, during which, according to reports, tens of thousands of protestors were killed, injured, or arrested.
“Under normal circumstances, I am absolutely against any war,” stated Susan, a 38-year-old doctor, to ANSA. “But the painful truth is that the only way to build a normal life and a secure future for our children is to obtain international protection in the form of military intervention, since unarmed people are unable to confront a government armed to the teeth that easily kills protestors,” she added, emphasizing, “We have waited for this moment for days and nights.”
Mixed Reactions on the Ground
As the first sounds of unprecedented explosions echoed throughout Tehran and dense smoke rose in parts of the capital and other cities, many people shared videos on social media welcoming the raid. Footage showed motorists stopping their cars, playing loud music, and dancing. Residents were also filmed cheering, filming jets in flight, and shouting, “Hit the targets you know!” Chants and songs could be heard from apartment windows following the attacks, even after reports from unofficial sources indicated several high-ranking officials and commanders had been killed.
Mahsa, a 27-year-old tour guide, told ANSA, “I am afraid of war. However, the authorities should be ashamed that the people want foreign attacks only to free themselves from their rulers.”
However, not all reactions were positive. Some government supporters have called for retaliation, demanding the destruction of Israel, US bases, and their military assets in the region. State-organized demonstrations were also held in Tehran to condemn the attacks. Reza, a 48-year-old public employee, told ANSA, “My two sons and I are ready to fight the enemies, Israel and the United States, to safeguard the Islamic Republic.”
Calls for Restraint and Preparation
The United States, Israel, and the leader of the current national movement, Reza Pahlavi, have urged citizens to remain home and await further announcements regarding “the right moment” for mobilization, to determine their own future. Despite authorities’ appeals, sent via SMS, to leave Tehran “for security reasons,” many citizens have stated they will remain, awaiting this “right moment.”
There are reports of a strong security presence in major cities, with military vehicles and weapons observed moving towards areas prone to protest, such as Tehranpars in eastern Tehran. The Supreme National Security Council issued a statement declaring that any movement or cooperation with the enemy will have severe consequences.
As smoke lingers over parts of the capital, the population appears suspended between expectation and fear, seeking to survive and hoping for change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the attacks?
The attacks were a joint operation by Israel and the United States.
How are Iranians reacting to the attacks?
Reactions are mixed, with some welcoming the attacks as a potential catalyst for change and others condemning them and calling for retaliation.
What are authorities advising citizens to do?
Authorities are urging citizens to leave Tehran “for security reasons,” while the United States, Israel, and Reza Pahlavi have advised citizens to remain home and await further instructions.
What will the next steps be in this rapidly evolving situation?
