Iranian Citizens Express Security Fears Amid US-Iran Tensions, Warn of Infrastructure Damage

As the exchange of strikes between the United States and Iran continues into its twelfth consecutive night, residents of Tehran and Mashhad shared their concerns exclusively with N12 about the escalating security atmosphere and the potential for widespread damage. Citizens described a heightened security presence on the streets, with checkpoints causing fear and heavy traffic congestion. Fiam from Mashhad noted the increased visibility of regime forces, while Shirin from Tehran highlighted the checkpoints' impact on daily life.

Despite the tense environment, some Iranians voiced hope that this conflict might end differently than past confrontations. However, Aliya from Tehran criticized Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, accusing him of abandoning previous agreements and being indifferent to the people's suffering, including poverty and unemployment. She emphasized that while the regime's leaders live comfortably, ordinary citizens continue to struggle for normal lives.

Elirza from Mashhad expressed a deeper fear that the conflict could evolve into a prolonged war of attrition, potentially leading to Iran's collapse. Shirin also warned that ongoing tensions might result in more arrests and executions of civilians accused of espionage or collaborating with hostile states, sometimes merely for photographing affected areas.

Fiam stressed his support for any measures that could end the regime's rule with minimal cost to the Iranian people but expressed concern that expanded military actions could destroy vital infrastructure and disrupt civilian life further. The interviewed citizens concluded with a message to former US President Donald Trump and Israel, urging them to "finish the job with these terrorists," warning that allowing the regime to remain in power would drag the world into ruin and pollution.