Explosions and power cuts have become a nightly reality for residents in Tehran and Karaj, Iran, following a sustained campaign of strikes. "I just want to be able to sleep tonight," one young resident shared, describing the constant fear and disruption. Over the past 10 days, both Israeli and US forces have conducted "broad waves of strikes" targeting what they describe as "terror targets" and weapons research facilities, including underground complexes and Quds Force infrastructure.
Iranians report temporary blackouts, power fluctuations, and structural damage to homes, leading to profound exhaustion and anxiety. "I was in total darkness last night," a Tehran man stated, highlighting the uncertainty and fear that accompany the strikes. The conflict, which began with a joint US-Israeli attack on February 28th, has seen retaliatory actions from Iran. Human rights groups report significant casualties, with thousands killed since the war's inception.
Despite restricted access for journalists, BBC Persian has gathered accounts from residents experiencing frequent explosions and disorienting lights. "They hit hard last night. All you can see in our house are cracks in the walls," one resident described. The ongoing conflict is taking a heavy toll on daily life, with many expressing a desperate desire for an end to the violence, even while some voice a sentiment that freedom is worth the struggle.
Residents in Karaj, west of Tehran, also reported strikes and power disruptions, with one describing the "shadow of death" from a nearby strike. The psychological impact is immense, with many feeling overwhelmed and fearful of the future. Some victims of previous crackdowns feel caught in a devastating cycle, harmed first by their own government and now by external conflict.