Tehran undivided: Shops offer people free food, shelter amidst Israeli strikes; virtual therapy to battle trauma

While a regime change or destabilization of Iran may have been an ideal outcome for Israel, reports indicate that the relentless air raids on Tehran have instead reignited a strong sense of nationalism among the people of the Islamic Republic. Even staunch critics of the regime—some of whom have faced jail time for their political positions—have stated that democracy cannot be achieved through bloodshed, according to Western media reports.

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Regardless of how the military standoff unfolds, a large number of Iranians have thrown their weight behind the regime. They are also demonstrating a spirit of brotherhood and unity that goes beyond the virtual realm of social media. Reports suggest that citizens of the national capital fleeing to safer destinations are being hosted by others along the way. Hotels, auditoriums, and community buildings remain open at night to provide shelter for families travelling to join their distant relatives, videos shared on social media show.

 

While long queues have become a common sight at food stalls, most citizens are showing remarkable maturity—taking only what they need so others don’t go empty-handed. According to a report by The New York Times from Tehran, many are content to return home with just a single loaf of bread so that everyone in the long lines has a chance to buy one. Supermarkets and eatery owners are also doing their part by offering discounts on essential items, particularly staple foods, the report added.

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In conflict zones, trauma and mental health issues have the potential to skyrocket. Aware of these consequences, experts are making the most of the internet to offer help to those affected in Iran. Psychologists are providing free virtual therapy sessions for residents of the capital city, media reports said. Tehran and its surrounding suburbs is home to some 9.73 million people and the ongoing Israeli-US assault has claimed at least 585 lives and injured another 1,300.

 

 

 

Iran's next move after US bombing

 

Iran cannot return to diplomacy while under attack by Israel and the United States and reserves all options to defend its security, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Sunday. He added that Tehran would consult with Russia on Monday regarding its next course of action.

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“The U.S. showed they have no respect for international law. They only understand the language of threat and force,” Araqchi stated, emphasizing that Tehran must respond in accordance with its sovereign rights before any return to diplomacy can be considered.

 

The Iranian foreign minister also announced that he would travel to Russia, a key strategic partner, to meet with President Vladimir Putin and discuss a coordinated response.

Middle East