Access to information is limited for many Iranians as debate grows over recent U.S. and Israeli strikes within the country, highlighting divisions even among those critical of the Iranian government. The conflict has sparked disagreements within families, with some supporting figures advocating for continued strikes despite rising casualties.
Iran Conflict Divides Public Opinion
Most Iranians lack internet access, and Starlink devices, along with VPNs, are often prohibitively expensive or illegal. This limits access to information, with those connected tending to be wealthier.
BBC Persian reports that most Iranians willing to speak out against the regime are critical of the current government. However, even within this group, significant disagreements exist regarding the war and its consequences.
Casualty figures vary. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies reports 1,900 deaths in Iran due to U.S. and Israeli strikes, while HRANA estimates over 3,400 deaths, including more than 1,500 civilians.
Maral, a student in her 20s from Rasht in northern Iran, expressed frustration with her father’s support for the strikes.
Her father is a staunch supporter of Reza Pahlavi, the former crown prince of Iran who now resides in the United States. Pahlavi has positioned himself as a potential transitional leader and supports continued U.S. and Israeli strikes, characterizing them as a “humanitarian intervention” and urging the U.S. to “stay the course.”
Pahlavi has gained some traction as an opposition figure in Iran, with demonstrators chanting his name during protests in January.
“I just want this war to end as soon as possible,” Maral said. “Many ordinary people have died.”
She described feeling “annoyed” by her father’s “optimistic” outlook, even as attacks continue. “We try to talk to him, but he just keeps going on about ‘the Prince, the Prince,’” she said.
Maral believes her father is influenced by “Israeli propaganda that the two countries will be friends,” and envisions a rapid rebuilding of Iran if Pahlavi comes to power. She added that her parents frequently argue about Pahlavi’s views.
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