Iran Prepares for Renewed Conflict, Fears Escalation

Tensions are escalating in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, with Iran preparing for a potential resumption of conflict with the United States. Iranian officials have threatened to expand their targets to include data centers, oil and gas facilities, and underwater internet cables. The spokesperson for the Revolutionary Guards stated last month that "there are new targets that have not yet been attacked, the war is not over and we are preparing for a long-term war." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X, "You wanted to 'finish the job' last time, and Iran emerged stronger. Want to try your luck again? Please, but be careful, we haven't finished the job either. Netanyahu is dragging the United States into another war to stay out of prison, whatever the consequences for Israel, not to mention the President of the United States."

Ordinary citizens in Tehran are expressing anxiety and preparing for potential renewed attacks. One resident told CNN that he has charged his portable batteries, stocked up on water, and made other necessary preparations, believing that hostilities could resume at any moment. Another resident described the fear she experiences daily when sending her children to school, passing by Revolutionary Guards and active military bases. Some question the rationale for further conflict if previous military actions and negotiations failed to eliminate Iranian leadership. "The only thing we are all talking about is the fact that everyone is convinced that the fighting is about to resume soon. The fact that this issue is being dealt with non-stop only exacerbates the entire situation, and there is not a single moment of respite," one resident noted.