Tehran is largely deserted, residents report, as the city experiences its fourth day of heavy bombardment. While hundreds have reportedly been killed in Iranian airstrikes since Saturday, there are currently no reports of widespread protests against the government, despite calls for citizens to rise up.
A City Under Siege
Eyewitnesses described the Iranian capital as a “ghost town” on Tuesday, with streets largely empty save for checkpoints and patrols by the Revolutionary Guard, according to Reuters and AFP. The reports follow massive missile strikes by the United States and Israel.
Reuters found no evidence of imminent protests through phone interviews with people across the country. The US and Israel have urged Iranians to capitalize on the situation and overthrow the government, but these calls have not yet materialized into widespread unrest.
Fear and Uncertainty Grip Residents
Residents express growing fear and anxiety. Fariba Gerami, a resident of northern Tehran, described checkpoints “on every street and in every alley.” She and her husband, a café owner, are concerned about potential burglaries due to power outages and disruptions to the water supply. The family hopes to leave Iran when it is safe, but fears for their safety on the roads.
Samireh, a 33-year-old nurse, said, “I’m afraid to move out on the empty streets because bombs are falling from the sky constantly.” She added that there are so few people on the streets “it looks like no one ever lived here.”
Heavy explosions continue to shake Tehran daily, with smoke rising into the sky. Saghar, a 31-year-old resident, reported feeling the vibrations of the attacks in his home.
Two Iranians who crossed into Turkey on Tuesday reported witnessing widespread panic and destruction. One man described seeing weeping children and civilian buildings hit by strikes. Another spoke of wrecked cars and impassable roads, stating, “People are panicking and aim for to leave the country. They don’t know what to do.”
Concerns are growing for civilian casualties. A hospital was damaged and evacuated after being hit by shelling on Monday. Reports indicate 150 people were killed in an attack on a girls’ school in southern Iran, though this number has not been independently verified. Images of compact coffins draped in Iranian flags were broadcast on state television.
Firuzeh Seraj, speaking from Tehran, pleaded, “World, do you see this? They are killing us. Hear our voice.” She expressed fear for her ten-year-old daughter, who requires dialysis, and the risk of bringing her to the hospital.
Israel called for the evacuation of areas in Tehran where the Iranian state broadcaster Irib is located. This call was disseminated on X, but limited by internet blockades within Iran.
Iran has reported 787 deaths, citing the Red Crescent. In response to the US-Israeli attacks, Iran launched drone and missile strikes targeting countries in the region, including Israel, Jordan, and Gulf monarchies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there protests happening in Iran?
According to Reuters, there are currently no reports of protests against the government, nor indications that they are imminent.
What is the situation like in Tehran?
Residents have described Tehran as a “ghost town,” largely deserted due to ongoing bombardment, with checkpoints and patrols present on the streets.
What has been the response to the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?
The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei sparked both spontaneous celebrations and mourning processions in parts of Tehran, but did not lead to widespread uprisings.
As the conflict continues, what steps might be taken to de-escalate the situation and protect civilian populations?
