The ongoing war between Iran, the U.S., and Israel has led to deep divides within the Iranian population. While many people have voiced hope that this conflict could bring the long-awaited change to the Islamic Republic, others are terrified of the consequences, feeling the weight of years of oppression and war.
The Growing Tension: War and the Iranian People’s Desperation for Change
Amid the escalating airstrikes and bombardment of key targets in Iran, some Iranians, like journalist Amir (who asked for anonymity), feel conflicted about the ongoing war. Having lived through multiple conflicts in less than a year, including a war with Israel in June and the massacre of protesters in January 2026, Amir describes the situation as “terrifying.”
The death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on March 1, 2026, has further stirred mixed emotions. While some Iranians mourned Khamenei’s death, many others, especially in the early days, celebrated his passing with fireworks, dancing, and cheers. For some, the death of the supreme leader brought a glimmer of hope that the war might help bring an end to the regime.
Support for the War, Despite the Fear
Though the war’s devastating consequences have created fear and chaos, some Iranians, such as Sahar from Tehran, view the war as a necessary step for regime change. Sahar expressed her belief that President Donald Trump’s promise to support Iranians in their struggle against the Islamic Republic must be fulfilled. She fears that if the war halts before the regime’s downfall, it would delay the long-desired change.
Others, like Mohsen, have grown increasingly disillusioned with the regime after witnessing its brutal repression of protests over the years. After the massacre of protesters in 2009 and again in 2022, he has come to believe that external pressure—such as military intervention—is the only way to topple the regime. “The massacres convinced many of us that war might be the only way to get rid of this regime, no matter the cost,” he said.
The High Toll of War: Casualties and Rising Desperation
Despite the growing hope for change, the human cost of the war is staggering. As of early March, more than 1,000 Iranians have died, including 224 women and 202 children, according to the Iranian Ministry of Health. The brutality of the conflict is being felt by people like Ziba, a 43-year-old woman from Tehran, who witnessed bombings near her home. She recalled the terrifying experience: “It was the second day of the war when they were hitting the radio and television stations and Tehran IRGC bases. I woke up thinking an earthquake had hit Tehran.”
The atmosphere in Tehran, Ziba added, has become “much scarier than the first days” as airstrikes continue, leaving many fearful of the future. Her decision to leave the city after an evacuation order reflects the growing panic among the population.
Iranians’ Resilience Amid the Chaos
Despite the overwhelming fear, many Iranians are holding onto hope that, someday, they will be able to reclaim their country. A young woman shared her thoughts with ABC News, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to fight for change despite the constant barrage of attacks. “We hear attacks every three or four hours, but the sound keeps us going. We are waiting for the day we can go out and get our country back from the Islamic regime,” she said.
However, not everyone believes the U.S. or Trump’s involvement in the war is entirely for humanitarian reasons. One Iranian man, speaking anonymously, reminded Americans that Iranians understand the complexities of foreign intervention. “We don’t think Trump or anyone is doing this for human rights only. We have to work with what we have,” he said, acknowledging the reality that the Iranian people must depend on external forces to assist in overthrowing their oppressors.
The Toll of Communication Blockades and Media Silence
The war has also brought severe challenges for Iranians, with a near-complete communication blockade imposed by the government. Many Iranians have been cut off from the outside world, with internet access severely restricted. Despite this, people continue to hold on to hope for a brighter future, dreaming of a day when the Islamic Republic no longer holds power over their lives.
As Amir put it, “Basically nothing in Iran progressed with the will of the people… We wanted freedom and peace, but it did not happen, and now we are engaged in war.”
The Future of Iran and Its People: What Lies Ahead?
As the war continues to unfold, many Iranians, like Amir, are uncertain about the future. “I don’t know what will happen if the war continues, but I hope that one day this country will see a happy face,” Amir expressed, voicing the hopes of many who endure the consequences of conflict in pursuit of a freer, more peaceful Iran.
