The prevailing sentiment among Iranians interviewed by the BBC is one of feeling “stuck.” Life in Iran, following days of intense Israeli airstrikes, is described as overwhelmingly challenging.
In the aftermath of the attacks, Tehran residents report a mass exodus, with citizens attempting to flee the city by any means necessary. One resident recounted chaotic scenes at petrol stations as people attempted to reach safety in less populated areas, but found themselves gridlocked in heavy traffic.
Fear is palpable. Residents express a profound sense of vulnerability, noting the lack of official warnings preceding attacks. The uncertainty of where to find safety is a pervasive concern.
One individual who successfully relocated to a different province described the surreal experience of living amidst active warfare, grappling with the emotional impact and uncertain future.
The individual emphasized their neutrality in the conflict, expressing a simple desire for personal and family survival.
This recent escalation marks Israel’s most significant air campaign against Iran in years, prompting retaliatory missile attacks from Iran on Israeli targets.
The human cost is severe. While Israeli authorities report at least 10 deaths, Iranian media, citing the health ministry, reported 128 fatalities as of Saturday midday.
The psychological toll is equally devastating. One Iranian woman described sleepless nights and the traumatic reminder of past conflicts, highlighting the lack of warning systems during the current attacks, a stark contrast to the experiences of the Iran-Iraq war.
Younger generations, unfamiliar with the previous conflict, are experiencing this trauma for the first time.
Many are considering leaving Tehran, but family obligations and work commitments frequently hinder their ability to do so. The shared experience is described as one of widespread fear, exhaustion and immense stress.
Communication difficulties are exacerbated by internet instability. Those living abroad anxiously await news from loved ones.
Adding to the widespread anxiety are warnings received from the Israeli military urging Iranians to evacuate areas near military installations. The vagueness of these warnings only increases the uncertainty and fear.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s public appeal to Iranians to unite for freedom has seemingly had minimal impact on the ground.
The destruction of residential buildings has deeply shocked the Iranian population, surpassing even the impact of attacks on military and nuclear facilities. Many describe the scenes as reminiscent of the Iran-Iraq war.
The initial confusion and uncertainty surrounding the attacks – their scope and the best ways to ensure personal safety – remain prominent in the minds of Iranians.
Edited by Alexandra Fouché
Reuters footage depicts burning vehicles in Haifa, Israel, following a missile strike.
This reporting follows a recent escalation of military actions between Israel and Iran.
BBC correspondent Hugo Bachega reports from Bat Yam, near Tel Aviv, a city targeted by Iranian attacks.
Overnight, attacks continued between Israel and Iran.
Early Saturday, a missile strike on Rishon LeZion resulted in two deaths and significant property damage.