**Iranian Voices: Fear and Resilience Amid Conflict in Tehran**

As the Israeli strikes continue, Iranians share their fears, confusion, and a profound desire to protect their homeland from devastation.

Residents of Tehran are grappling with the harrowing reality of conflict, shocked and unsettled by Israel’s unexpected military strikes which began early Friday. Long lines form at petrol stations and bakeries as families rush to escape the capital, bracing for the unknown. A 21-year-old music student, who prefers to remain anonymous, conveyed her fear: “Everyone is leaving but I'm not. My dad says it's more honourable to die in your own house than to run away.”

Donya is emblematic of countless Iranians being thrust into a battle between an oppressive regime and an adversarial Israel, a situation she perceives would obliterate her beloved city. "I really don't want my beautiful Tehran to turn into Gaza," she remarked poignantly.

As the military conflict prevails, an emotional rollercoaster unfolds for many. Initially, some felt a sense of thrill at the news of Israeli attacks on high-profile military targets. However, the reality shifted dramatically when reports of civilian casualties began to surface, evoking deep sorrow and anger. "Suddenly that image of power was shattered," lamented one woman who expressed her dread following news that critical gas fields had been targeted too.

The casualty counts have risen alarmingly, with over 220 dead, including many women and children, according to Iranian authorities. In this turmoil, Israel reports that its own losses stand at 24 due to Iranian missile strikes. The fear in Tehran is palpable, compounded by the absence of early warning systems or shelters, leaving residents vulnerable as missiles fall silently overhead. "We are constantly checking the news and trying to contact family and friends," a local resident shared, emphasizing the universality of fear.

While the Iranian regime suggests gathering in mosques for safety, the unpredictability of strikes renders such advice hollow. “Every neighbourhood has been somehow affected,” a young woman told BBC Persian, reflecting on the widespread anxiety gripping everyday lives. The atmosphere has unveiled fissures within Iranian society, with opinions split on the conflict - prompting both feelings of helplessness and anger towards Israeli actions.

The situation feels reminiscent of a sinking ship, as allegiances shift amidst the chaos. One woman expressed frustration at how even among her own family, views diverge sharply on the impact and implications of this conflict. "Most Iranians have realized that freedom and human rights don't come from Israeli bombs," she stated, with dread lingering over what the future may hold.

Furthermore, those in the Iranian diaspora are struggling with the emotional weight of the crisis. Women's rights activist Dorreh Khatibi-Hill articulated the tensions faced by families scattered across the globe, balancing relief at regime losses with sorrow for civilian lives. "It's a devastating humanitarian disaster," she observed, underscoring the collective wish to prevent Iran from descending into further turmoil akin to Iraq or Syria.

As this chapter of conflict unfolds, the hopes of many reside not in foreign intervention but in the resilience of their people as they navigate the complexities of identity, loyalty, and survival in a time of existential threat.