Original Source

Iranian citizens are striving to maintain daily life amidst economic hardship and fears of increased government repression, following crackdowns on anti-government protests and US-Israeli airstrikes. There is growing anxiety that the regime's pressure on the populace could intensify after a peace agreement.

Iranian Citizens Fear Repression Amid Economic Hardship

Iranian citizens are struggling to maintain a semblance of normalcy after experiencing a brutal crackdown on anti-government protests and subsequent airstrikes by US-Israeli forces. Despite the deep scars left by the airstrikes and internet blackouts, shops, restaurants, and government offices continue to operate. However, beneath this facade of calm, Iran's economy is in ruins, and widespread anger against the government persists, coupled with fears of further repression.

Concerns Over Increased Post-War Regime Pressure

Fariba (37), a participant in the January anti-government protests, expressed concern that the regime would intensify pressure on ordinary citizens once the war concludes. Omid Memarian, an Iran expert at the Dawn think tank, noted that Iranians have realized the war has not overthrown the regime but has instead worsened their economic lives. Official figures report thousands of deaths from the airstrikes, widespread destruction of national infrastructure, and concerns about mass unemployment. While some citizens are currently enjoying the ceasefire, many express anxiety about how to deal with a potentially more powerful regime afterward.

*Source: Reuters (2026-04-20)*

Related Articles