War Fueled Regime, Bankrupted Economy: 'Iranian Citizens Are Tired,' Says Student

Tehran, once emptied by the threat of war, is now a city of bustling streets and crowded subways, a stark contrast to the fear that gripped it just months ago. Iranian student Jeong Si-hoon, who returned after a 101-day absence, described the airport as packed and the roads congested, with military presence significantly reduced. The visible scars of conflict are absent, replaced by a return to daily life. However, beneath this surface of normalcy, a deep economic strain and public discontent are palpable.

“

It felt like, 'Is this really a country that was at war until recently?'

Prices for daily necessities have surged by approximately 50% since Jeong's departure, making even a modest meal at a decent restaurant a significant burden for average citizens earning modest incomes. The Iranian rial has also weakened against the dollar, exacerbating inflation and fueling public frustration. While the government is projecting an optimistic future, citing a peace agreement with the U.S. that could lead to the release of frozen assets and reconstruction aid, many Iranians are wary.

“

I'm tired.

"I'm tired," a local resident told Jeong, expressing a weariness with the constant threat of conflict and a desire to move past the war. For those who had hoped for political change, the government's perceived strength in navigating the crisis has led to a sense of powerlessness. Skepticism about the promised economic benefits is widespread, with many doubting that the influx of funds will translate into tangible improvements in their lives. This sentiment is echoed by foreign media reports, which suggest that new funds may primarily bolster the regime and its allies rather than benefiting the general population.

“

Even if funds enter Iran, I don't know where they will go, so some citizens seem to be half-believing. Those who didn't support the government before don't seem to have changed their minds much after the war.

Conversely, some pro-government citizens express defiance towards the U.S., viewing the recent conflict as a necessary stand against foreign aggression. They believe the government defended the nation's territory without making concessions and provided solace to war-torn families. However, even these supporters harbor concerns about the U.S.'s historical unreliability in agreements, fearing a potential resurgence of conflict. Their hopes for the future lie in eradicating corruption and creating a stable economic environment free from foreign pressure. Meanwhile, others suspect that the economic hardships are part of a deliberate plan by internal actors to incite public anger and unrest.

“

We fear the survival of the regime more than the war itself.