As US steps up pressure on Iran, ordinary people say they’re paying the price

As U.S. forces escalate military operations against Iran, ordinary citizens are reporting worsening living conditions and growing despair. A middle-aged Iranian woman known only as Roya, based in northeast Tehran, described how the ongoing conflict has transformed everyday life into a struggle for survival. She recounted how the U.S.-Israeli campaign has led to an intensified naval blockade and stricter sanctions, leaving families struggling to afford food and basic necessities. Roya, who holds a master's degree in Persian literature, expressed frustration over the lack of progress toward regime change and the persistent economic hardship faced by the general public. Roya explained that while the Iranian government maintains control over key sectors, the average citizen bears the brunt of the economic fallout. She noted that despite the military confrontation, the ruling elite remains largely unaffected by the financial restrictions. Her observations reflect a broader sentiment among Iranians, who are increasingly disillusioned with the political status quo. Many have abandoned traditional practices, such as wearing the mandatory hijab, as a form of protest against the regime's strict social policies. The situation has worsened significantly since the start of the conflict. According to reports, the Iranian economy was already in decline prior to the escalation of hostilities, marked by negative growth, high inflation, and a severe currency crisis. The recent military actions have further disrupted civilian and industrial infrastructure, exacerbating existing challenges. Despite these hardships, Iran has managed to withstand the prolonged conflict without experiencing a complete economic collapse. In response to the escalating tensions, the Trump administration has intensified economic measures aimed at pressuring Iran into compliance. These efforts include imposing additional sanctions and threatening economic penalties against nations that continue to engage in trade with Iran. The goal is to tighten the grip on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway responsible for approximately 20% of global oil transportation. However, the effectiveness of these strategies remains uncertain. Recent developments indicate that the conflict has entered a new phase. Following a period of relative calm, the U.S. military conducted strikes targeting Iranian mine-laying capabilities on Larak Island, aiming to reduce Iranian influence over the strategic waterway. In retaliation, Iran launched eight ballistic missiles, most of which were intercepted, at U.S. bases in Jordan and also deployed drones against UAE facilities. These incidents highlight the continued volatility of the region and the risks associated with the ongoing standoff. The U.S. military has stated that its strikes on Iran will be limited, though officials have warned that further action remains possible. Meanwhile, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps has become a focal point for retaliatory measures, with U.S. Central Command confirming strikes on its targets within Iran. Such developments contribute to a climate of uncertainty, affecting both military and civilian populations alike. Experts suggest that the resilience of the Iranian regime in the face of sustained pressure has sent a powerful message to the populace. Sanam Vakil, a specialist at Chatham House, noted that the ability of the government to resist external pressures could bolster support among certain segments of the population, particularly those who oppose the current leadership. This dynamic underscores the complex interplay between state power, economic hardship, and societal resistance in the region.