Life in Chaos: Iranians Recount Fear and Defiance Amid Bombardment

The streets of Tehran have been largely deserted, roamed by paramilitary officials and vigilantes, as residents of the Iranian capital describe a climate of fear, defiance, and anger in the aftermath of a series of military strikes. In messages to NPR, Iranians have painted a grim picture of life under the constant threat of bombardment, with security forces cracking down on any attempts to gather for Nowruz, the Persian new year, this week.

One resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, recounted the tense atmosphere in the city, saying,