Iranians say regime not only at war with US and Israel but 'with its own people'
Iranians are facing severe economic hardship and increased state surveillance following the onset of a conflict between Iran, the U.S., and Israel. Citizens report a climate of fear and uncertainty as the regime maintains a strict security environment.
Why it matters
The intersection of international conflict and domestic economic instability in Iran highlights the growing disconnect between the regime and its populace.
Since the US and Israel's war on Iran began in February, trials and sentences for dissidents have continued at an alarming pace. ( ABC News: Daniel Pannett )
Link copied Share Share article In the city of Isfahan, south of the Iranian capital Tehran, the once-bustling bazaar is much quieter than usual.
Shoppers still wander the streets and laneways, but the upheaval the country has experienced over the past five months is weighing heavily.
"Some days, I sit in my shop and there are no customers," Vahid, whose name has been changed by the ABC to protect his identity, said in a voice note.
"No-one even asks for the prices. People are completely devastated.
"They don't know whether to save their money, spend it on food or buy something else.
"People are genuinely desperate and don't know how to move forward."
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