The crisis in the Middle East is directly impacting millions of lives and causing uncertainty across the world. What is it like for people in Iran living through this emergency?
Iran: voices from the ground
16 March 2026
Today is the 17th day of war in cold and cloudy Tehran. This time of the year is usually festive and busy as we celebrate Nowruz and the end of Ramadan, but that’s not the case this year.
Tehran, always busy with its crowded streets and huge traffic, is now calm and empty, awaiting the sounds of drones, missiles, and explosions.
Every three to four hours, there’s a loud noise – a bang. Right after that, the first thing we do is text our loved ones in the different neighbourhoods of Tehran, and other cities if we hear any news, to make sure they’re still okay. The attacks usually come without prior warning. Some nights the explosions are so intense that the sky feels like daytime. There are nights when finding sleep is impossible.
In the towns people have mostly stayed at home, while many have left Tehran. But even small cities are under attack. The roads were all packed the day the attacks started, but now with all the uncertainty, no-one’s sure what their next move should be.
Hospitals, schools and local shops are damaged or destroyed after each attack. Yet, even in this situation, people try to help each other.”
Anonymous