‘No one knows when this war will stop': Conflict leaves Iranians in state of uncertainty
Iranians
fleeing Tehran were caught in bumper-to-bumper traffic jams on Monday night, spurred by US president
Donald Trump
, who warned the city's 10 million citizens to evacuate to escape
Israeli
strikes.
While Trump said on Tuesday, the
fifth day of the war
, that he wants 'a real end, not a ceasefire', Iranians do not believe he will achieve this objective anytime soon.
Having ordered evacuations before Trump spoke, Israel has not said where people fleeing should go. There is concern that small towns and villages cannot provide accommodation for evacuees who reach their destinations after long hours on the road. Many Iranians cannot evacuate as they have elderly or ailing family members or jobs which cannot be carried out remotely.
One expatriate said she does not know where her cousins are as she has been unable to contact them. 'Iranians don't know what to do. People who leave Tehran to stay with relatives outside cannot be certain they will be safe. Many have gone back home. They do not know where this is heading. If someone else was in the White House, many people would feel better. No one knows when this war will stop. Now that Israel has started this war Israel must end it.'
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She said before Israel's strikes, Iranians were suffering from electricity outages, cuts in water supplies, internet disruptions and the collapse of the currency because of international sanctions. 'The situation can only get worse,' she said.
Iranians living in Israeli-targeted cities complain that there are no air-raid sirens or bomb shelters, although the government has said people could go to metros in six of the largest cities: Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, Tabriz, Isfahan, and Karaj.
While mosques have also been suggested as safe places, Iranians have pointed out that Israel has not spared them during its war on Gaza.
Iranians were shocked when Israeli bombs briefly disrupted a newscast at Iran's state television station in Tehran on Monday, and said journalists should not be targeted. Two people died in the attack.
The official toll has remained at 224 dead and about 1,200 wounded but is expected to rise. Health ministry spokesman Hossein Kermanpour said more than 90 per cent of casualties have been civilians. Patients were wounded when the Farabi hospital in the western city of Kermanshah was targeted on Monday, according to Esmaeil Baqaei of the foreign ministry.
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Iran and Israel broaden attacks as Trump urges 'everyone' to evacuate Tehran
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Hospitals in bombed residential areas have been deluged with dead and wounded, and doctors and nurses are overstretched and exhausted. The Guardian newspaper cited an emergency doctor at Tehran's Imam Khomeini Hospital who said: 'It was a bloodbath. We were overwhelmed by chaos and the screams of grieving family members. Dozens upon dozens of people with life-threatening injuries, minor wounds and even bodies were brought in.'
He added: 'I've seen toddlers, teenagers, adults and elderly alike. Profusely bleeding mothers were rushing in with their children injured by shrapnel.'
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Irish Times
an hour ago
- Irish Times
Bombed live on air, now a hero: state TV anchor becomes a symbol of resistance in Iran
Iranian state TV anchor Sahar Emami was delivering a live broadcast in Tehran this week when she was interrupted by loud booms. Shocked viewers – who have been closely following state media for news of the war between Israel and Iran – saw the room fill with smoke, dust and debris. 'The sound you just heard is the sound of the aggressor attacking our homeland, the sound of the aggressor seeking to stifle rightfulness and truth,' said Emami, wagging her index finger as the cameras kept rolling. 'What you just witnessed ... this smoke-filled studio of the news network,' she went on, before being forced to abandon her seat as a second explosion rocked the building. READ MORE Government figures and state media quickly seized on Emami's determination to keep broadcasting, making her an instant symbol of resistance dubbed the 'Iranian lioness'. [ Israelis under attack from Iran shift to full war mode Opens in new window ] Minutes after the second blast, Emami reappeared live from another studio, even as videos posted online showed fire and smoke rising from the glass headquarters of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting group. Within hours, her image was plastered across social media and featured in a large mural in the Iranian capital. President Masoud Pezeshkian called her a 'symbol of resilience, steadfastness and unyielding spirit'. Fatemeh Mohajerani, government spokesperson, likened the 'brave-hearted daughter of Iran' with Gordafarid, a legendary Persian heroine and one of the first female Iranian warriors, as depicted in Shahnameh, a 1,000-year-old epic poem by the Persian writer Ferdowsi. Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said: 'Last night, in the midst of the Zionist regime's savage attack ... a courageous Iranian woman stood before the camera – fearless, steadfast and filled with love for [her] homeland.' According to the IRNA news agency, he added: 'She was the voice of Iran.' Less than 24 hours after the strike, a mural was unveiled in Vali-e Asr square in downtown Tehran, according to state media, depicting Emami on air with her index finger raised, clad in the black chador worn by conservative women in Iran. The mural used a verse from Ferdowsi about 'a maiden in the battlefield', another reference to Gordafarid. The references to pre-Islamic literature, which has often been sidelined by the Islamic republic, were seen as an attempt to inspire nationalistic sentiments. Mohajerani proposed that a courage in journalism award should be named after Emami. Sporting stars joined the rush to praise her, with karate athlete Amir Mehdizadeh and sport shooter Javad Foroughi dedicating their gold medals from international competitions to the broadcaster. Emami (40), who has a degree in agricultural engineering, joined IRIB in 2008 and became known for the current affairs show Pishkhan Khabar. The conservative broadcasting group has faced criticism from reformist politicians and many Iranians for serving as a mouthpiece for the autocratic state, which itself stifles freedom of expression. It is seen as highly selective in its coverage of international and domestic developments, such as protests that followed the death in 2022 of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who had been arrested by Iran's notorious morality police. But even some Iranians critical of the regime said they were inspired by Emami's example. Mansoureh (45), a reform-minded critic of the Islamic republic in Tehran, said: 'When I saw that woman on TV, I felt so ashamed of myself. What am I scared of? I told myself that I will have to remain where I am and defend my city.' Others remained sceptical, however. 'To me, it looked more like a performance. There had been an evacuation order and she seemed mentally prepared,' said Sara (58), a nurse, also in the capital. 'She knew that if she could hold her composure for a few moments on live television, she would be hailed as a heroine ... And the Islamic republic is using that to serve its own propaganda purposes.' Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu has called on Iranians to 'stand up for your freedom' against the regime of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei since Israel launched its large-scale offensive against Iranian targets on Friday, prompting Iran to return missile and drone fire. But there is so far little sign of the war sparking anti-government protests, despite sporadic large-scale demonstrations in recent years. On Tuesday, IRIB released a video showing the damage to the building, including the fourth floor – the location of the newsroom and the live studio where Emami was presenting at the time of the assault. State television showed images of the building on fire again, saying wind had reignited embers from Monday's strike. Israel attacked the building about an hour after issuing an evacuation order for Tehran's district 3, where the IRIB headquarters is located, along with the police headquarters and three hospitals. Three people were confirmed killed in the strike, including Nima Rajabpour, news producer, and Masoumeh Azimi, a member of the office staff. The Committee to Protect Journalists said it was 'appalled' by the attack on state television. Emami told viewers the attack had 'targeted freedom of speech, the truth, and the voices of women, men and children who were martyred in recent days'. - Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2025
Sunday World
an hour ago
- Sunday World
Chaos outside court as Kneecap member arrives ahead of appearance on terror charge
Follow our live coverage in the blog below Police officers are seen among supporters of Kneecap's Liam Og O Hannaidh outside Westminster Magistrates' Court in London. Credit: PA Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh who performs under the name Mo Chara of Irish group Kneecap appears outside Westminster Magistrates' Court. There are chaotic scenes outside a court today where a member of Kneecap is appearing charged with a terror offence. Liam Og O hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, is due at Westminster Magistrates Court accused of displaying a flag in support of a proscribed organisation. Shortly after 10am, Mr Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and J J O Dochartaigh arrived to a scrum of hundreds of their supporters who cheered as their vehicle pulled up. Some in the crowd are holding Irish Tricolours and Palestinian flags. Sinn Fein MPs Paul Maskey and John Finucane are present. Mr Maskey has addressed the crowd. The 27-year-old from west Belfast has been charged over the alleged display of the flag in support of Hezbollah at a gig at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, north London, last November. The band have previously said they will 'vehemently defend ourselves'. Follow our live coverage below: Key updates Kneecap members leave court Kneecap member released on bail until next hearing Kneecap court proceedings underway Kneecap members arrive at court Police remove pro-Israel protestor Flavia Gouveia Protest concludes with music and clean up effort Following the protest, musicians performed and people chanted while organisers picked up litter and discarded placards. Speaking after the protest, Linsy Damashek, 22, said: 'It was incredible. It was very diverse; I loved hearing the people speak about their history. 'I'm Irish as well so it's a shared history of colonialism. That's why people are out here – we know what colonialism looks like and genocide.' Ms Damashek, who lives in south London, attended as a member of Jews Against Genocide UK. She added: 'From my Jewish side, we know what a genocide looks like and what's going on in Palestine is a genocide. 'Everything is interconnected.' Mark Edwards More images of Kneecap rapper leaving court Liam Og O hAnnaidh leaving court. PA wires Liam Og O hAnnaidh leaving court. PA wire Liam Og O hAnnaidh . PA wire Mark Edwards Kneecap members leave court The members of the band Kneecap have left Westminster Magistrates' Court. Liam Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and J J O Dochartaigh left the court to loud cheers and chants of "Free Palestine" from hundreds of their supporters who remained outside during the hearing. O hAnnaidh was wearing sunglasses and a keffiyeh as he left the court. Before they emerged, supporters gave speeches about Palestine and Ireland. The area outside Westminster Magistrates Court was crammed with fans waving flags, playing drums and a smoke canister was set off. Supporters followed the band to a side road where a dark people carrier waited for them, chanting pro Palestine slogans as they were asked to clear the road by police. Kneecap members leaving court. PA wire Mark Edwards Kneecap member released on bail until next hearing Liam Og O hAnnaidh was released on unconditional bail until his next hearing on August 20 when legal argument will be dealt with. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring told him he must attend court on that day. He received a round of applause outside the courtroom after the short hearing. Hundreds of fans along with journalists crammed against the doors of the court building as they waited for the performer to leave. He went into a side room to speak with lawyers after the hearing. Supporters of Kneecap's Liam Og O Hannaidh wait outside Westminster Magistrates' Court in London . PA wire Mark Edwards Prosecutor comments on case against Kneecap rapper Kneecap rapper Liam O hAnnaidh, who uses the stage name Mo Chara, 27, from Belfast, is accused of displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah at a gig on November 21 2024 at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town. Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove said: "This case is not about Mr hAnnaidh's support for the people of Palestine or his criticism of Israel." He told the court O hAnnaidh is "well within his rights" to express his support and solidarity for Palestinians. It is alleged that O hAnnaidh, who appeared on the court list as Liam O'Hanna, displayed a Hezbollah flag and said "up Hamas, up Hezbollah" at the gig. Wearing a dark zip up jacket and trousers, he spoke briefly to confirm his identity at the beginning of the hearing. Claire Williamson Irish interpreter sought for proceedings Allison Morris reports: The judge has asked if Liam Og O hAnnaidh would prefer an Irish interpreter. One couldn't be found that was available for today - defence has said if one is available for the trial that would be helpful. Mark Edwards Footage of Kneecap members arriving at court Claire Williamson Kneecap court proceedings underway Allison Morris reports: The defendant has confirmed his name - in Irish - to the judge Adrian Rutherford Court delays amid chaos Allison Morris reports the court case has yet to start. "There are too many people and not enough spaces, along with thousands of supporters outside," she says. "Inside there are representatives of the Irish language lobby and politicians John Finucane and Paul Maskey." Kneecap's Liam Og O Hannaidh (centre, in scarf) arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London . PA wire Kneecap band member, JJ Ó Dochartaigh, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court. Getty Images Claire Williamson 'Fields of Athenry' playing outside court Bemused defendants who had shown up for their day in court tried to push through the crowds with an Irish band playing the Fields of Athenry Claire Williamson Kneecap in court Allison Morris reports there were chaotic scenes as Kneecap arrived in court with security struggling to contain the crowds gathered outside. Kneecap's Naoise O Caireallain (Moglai Bap) arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London . PA wire Claire Williamson Speeches underway Sinn Fein MPs Paul Maskey and John Finucane are currently addressing the crowd Mark Edwards Kneecap members arrive at court The members of Kneecap have arrived at Westminster Magistrates' Court. Liam Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and J J O Dochartaigh arrived to a scrum of hundreds of their supporters who cheered as their vehicle pulled up. The band were wearing "Free Mo Chara" T-shirts as they arrived at the central London court - Mo Chara being the stage name of Og O hAnnaidh. The members of Kneecap walked up the stairs of the court and looked over the balcony, smiling and giving a thumbs up to their hundreds of supporters gathered outside. A crowd of supporters had surged around the entrance of the court as the band arrived, with some also entering the lobby. Liam Og O hAnnaidh . Getty Images Claire Williamson Kneecap arrival expected imminently We are inside court awaiting proceedings to start - Kneecap expected to arrive any minute Mark Edwards Police remove pro-Israel protestor Police removed a pro-Israel protester who walked into the crowd outside court wearing an Israeli flag which provoked boos, swearing and shouts of "free Palestine". The crowd became animated and shouted "Israel is a terrorist state" and "take him out for his own safety" as he made gestures and argued with protesters. Police surrounded the man as the crowd moved towards him, with protesters cheering as he was removed. Police officers remove a counter-protesters from the middle of the supporters of Kneecap's Liam Og O Hannaidh . PA wire Claire Williamson 'Chaotic scenes' Allison Morris reports: There are chaotic scenes at Westminster court as police try and keep order in a crowd that's grown to several thousands. They are chanting 'Free Free Mo Chara' Claire Williamson Allison Morris in London Crime Correspondent Allison Morris is in London for the Belfast Telegraph and will be bringing us live coverage as the day's proceedings unfold. There is a large media presence currently gathered for the case. Mark Edwards Thousands of supporters now outside court Kneecap reporter outside court . PA wire Mark Edwards Kneecap 'on the right side of history', claims Sinn Fein MP Sinn Féin MPs Paul Maskey and John Finucane will this morning address a protest outside Westminster Magistrates' Court in support of Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh. West Belfast MP Paul Maskey said: 'While Benjamin Netanyahu, his rogue regime, and an out-of-control military continue to violate international law and commit war crimes, it is Kneecap — not the war criminals — who are being dragged before the courts. 'This is the same British justice system that stays silent on the British government's complicity in Israel's brutal and relentless assault on the defenceless people of Gaza. 'Today, I'll be speaking out against these glaring double standards and standing in solidarity with Liam Óg. 'Kneecap's courage in calling out Israel's genocide in Palestine, despite the full weight of the western establishment against them, deserves recognition and support. They are on the right side of history.' Mark Edwards Supporters now chanting outside court Protesters of all ages, both individuals and groups, gathered outside the court building before Liam Og O hAnnaidh's hearing. Many carried placards of support as well as Palestinian and Irish flags and set up banners on the railings positioned by the court. Groups including Love Music Hate Racism set up tables distributing placards, stickers, posters and T-shirts. Charles Parker, 35, said protesting was important to him because he believed in "freedom of speech". The composite engineer from Northamptonshire said: "I believe in freedom for Palestine. "I come from an Irish Republican background and Palestine helped us in the 1990s. "We stand by those who stand by us. "I have been a fan of Kneecap since I saw them in Belfast about five years ago. "I'm open to whatever may happen. If the Metropolitan Police do anything, you've got to be ready for anything." Supporters outside the court in London . PA wire Load more Tickaroo Live Blog Software Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh who performs under the name Mo Chara of Irish group Kneecap appears outside Westminster Magistrates' Court. News in 90 Seconds - June 18th
Irish Examiner
an hour ago
- Irish Examiner
Iran's Khamenei rejects Trump's call for 'unconditional surrender'
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that his country will not accept US President Donald Trump's call for an unconditional surrender In his first remarks since Friday, Khamenei said peace or war could not be imposed on the Islamic Republic. 'Intelligent people who know Iran, the Iranian nation, and its history will never speak to this nation in threatening language because the Iranian nation will not surrender,' he said in a statement read by a television presenter on Wednesday. He said Americans should know that any US military intervention will undoubtedly be "accompanied by irreparable damage.' Referring to Mr Trump's previous threats, he said those who know Iran's history know that Iranians "do not answer well" to the language of threats. Khamenei also said people will not forget the blood of "martyrs" and the attack on their territory by Israel. A man looks at flames rising from an oil storage facility after it appeared to have been struck by an Israeli strike in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, June 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi) Meanwhile, thousands of people continued to flee from the Iranian capital Tehran on Wednesday after Israeli warplanes bombed the city overnight. According to a Reuters, President Trump is reportedly considering options that include joining Israel in attacking Iranian nuclear sites. Mr Trump initially distanced himself from the Israeli attacks on Iran but has hinted at greater American involvement, saying he wants something 'much bigger' than a ceasefire agreement. The US has also sent more warplanes to the region. Read More Israeli warplanes hammer Iranian capital
