‘We’re sinking deeper’: Iranians brace for infrastructure strikes as Trump deadline nears
‘We’re sinking deeper’: Iranians brace for infrastructure strikes as Trump deadline nears
Trump’s Threat and Iranian Response
As Donald Trump’s deadline approaches, Iranians are bracing for potential strikes on their energy infrastructure. The U.S. president, in a fiery social media post, declared that “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!!”
Iranian officials have dismissed Trump’s Tuesday deadline, with a presidential aide criticizing it as “sheer desperation and anger.” Despite the internet blackout imposed by authorities over five weeks ago, the BBC has managed to speak with several Iranians opposed to the current regime, though their identities have been concealed for safety.
Ordinary Voices Amid Uncertainty
“It feels like we’re sinking deeper into a swamp. What can we do as ordinary people? We can’t stop him. I keep thinking about a scenario where, in a month, I’m sitting with my family with no water, no electricity, nothing. And someone blows out the candle and we go to sleep.” – Kasra, Tehran
“My mum is filling every bottle she can find in the house with water. I’ve no idea what we’re going to do now. I think more and more in Iran have realized that Trump doesn’t care about them at all. I hate him from the bottom of my heart, and hate those who support him too.” – Mina, Tehran
Retaliation and Fear of Escalation
Some of those interviewed initially viewed U.S.-Israeli strikes as promised aid, but most now see attacks on critical infrastructure as a significant escalation. “I’ve thanked Israel and the U.S. for almost all of what they’ve hit so far,” said Arman, from Karaj. “They must have had good reasons for them [targets]. But I swear, hitting a power station just paralyzes the country. It plays into the Islamic Republic’s hands.”
Iranian media reported 13 fatalities and nearly 100 injuries after a bridge under construction in Karaj was bombed. Radin, a Tehran resident, added: “About them hitting energy infrastructure, using an atomic bomb, or levelling Iran. My honest reaction is that I’m OK with all of these. Or anything else they might have in mind. If attacking targets in the country brings down the Islamic Republic, I’m fine with that.”
Impact on Daily Life and Economy
Bahman, a Tehran resident, expressed concerns about the economic fallout: “I think Trump is scared of what Iran is going to do. I’m sure that Iran will hit everywhere in the region in retaliation.” The war has disrupted his routine, leaving him unable to work as a building superintendent engineer. “No-one is building anything right now. Some smaller companies have started laying off employees already.”
Meanwhile, Jamshid, who operates a restaurant in Tehran, noted: “My business isn’t the same as before. I’m not optimistic about the situation. I estimate I can hold this up for a month, maybe two, at most. The rent is breaking my back. It’s 200m tomans a month, roughly $1,270.”
Despite the economic strain, internet access remains a challenge. Many still rely on shared connections through Starlink systems, though using or owning the technology risks up to two years in prison. Authorities have reportedly intensified searches for those utilizing it.
