Watch: Devastation on Tehran street after strike
Tehran’s Struggle: Ongoing Conflict and Protests in Iran
Tehran remains under sustained missile attacks following the US-Israel coordinated strike on February 28. The operation sparked immediate retaliation, with Iranian forces continuing to target the capital. Regional allies including Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan have reported intercepting missiles aimed at US military installations on their soil.
The BBC’s John Donnison was reporting live from Jerusalem when emergency alerts began to sound on his phone. This marked the start of a new phase in the escalating tensions. Meanwhile, a British woman detained by Iranian authorities shared her experience of being held in prison, describing the emotional toll of her ordeal before she and her husband were sentenced to 10 years for espionage.
Inside the Protests
Lyse Doucet, the BBC’s Iran correspondent, is conducting her first on-site report since the nation’s anti-government demonstrations were quelled by intense military action. She notes that the aftermath still leaves a deep sense of anguish among the people. The protests, now in their 13th night, began as a response to economic hardship but have since expanded into a widespread movement.
Anti-government demonstrations in Iran have persisted for 13 consecutive days. In verified footage, protesters are heard chanting slogans against the government, with Thursday marking the largest turnout since the protests began on December 28. BBC Verify has examined disturbing images from a Tehran mortuary, suggesting they may provide critical insights into the situation.
John Sudworth, a BBC journalist, described the sounds of heavy machinery echoing through the neighborhood, adding to the sense of chaos. Hugo Bachega, the BBC’s Middle East correspondent, is reporting from the Iranian-Armenian border, where internet restrictions have been imposed following deadly protests. He has been a vocal supporter of continuing the resistance against Iran’s authoritarian regime.
Humanitarian Concerns
Relatives of 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, detained last week, told BBC Persian that he is scheduled for execution on Wednesday. Kurdish-run detention centers hold around 8,000 suspected ISIS fighters, with approximately 34,000 family members detained in nearby camps. The situation in Gaza has seen some aid deliveries since the ceasefire three months ago, but the UN claims the supply is still insufficient.
Meanwhile, in Manger Square, hundreds gathered to celebrate a festive event featuring music, dancing, and Santa Claus figures handing out treats. The same vehicle that once transported Pope Francis to Bethlehem during his 2014 visit is now linked to the ongoing aid crisis. A UN humanitarian chief warned that about 14,000 babies could die within 48 hours if aid fails to reach them.
“It was hard to remain positive in prison,” said the British woman, reflecting on her time in custody.
“The pain is still raw,” Lyse Doucet stated, emphasizing the lingering effects of the protests.
“The protests must continue,” Hugo Bachega urged, highlighting the call for sustained resistance.
“About 14,000 babies will die in 48 hours if aid does not reach them,” warned the UN humanitarian official.
