Iranians across the nation are still grappling with profound shock, grief, and fear following the deadliest crackdown ever witnessed in the Islamic Republic last month. The brutal suppression of massive nationwide protests has left thousands dead and tens of thousands arrested, yet a persistent vein of defiance continues to pulse through the country.
Nightly Defiance and Seething Anger
In Tehran and other cities, nightly rituals of defiance unfold as residents shout anti-government slogans from windows and rooftops. A teacher in the capital recently recounted to The Associated Press how she joined chants of "Death to the dictator!" and "Death to the murderer, Khamenei!" from her balcony, with neighbors drowning out pro-government voices. This seething anger at Iran's rulers, led by 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, is vividly captured in social media videos and conversations with protesters, all speaking anonymously for safety.
Chehelom Ceremonies Turn Political
Defiance is also manifesting at traditional 40-day memorial gatherings, known as "chehelom," for those killed. This week marks 40 days since the deadliest days of the crackdown on January 8 and 9, and online videos show ceremonies in towns like Abdanan, where hundreds chanted "Death to Khamenei" at the chehelom of 16-year-old Alireza Seydi. Security forces responded with tear gas, echoing historical patterns where such memorials have sparked further protests. In Mashhad, crowds shouted "Shameless!" at police harassing mourners for fireman Hamid Mahdavi.
These gatherings often reject state-imposed solemnity, with participants singing, throwing flowers, and using the phrase "javid nam" (long live the name) instead of Islamic terms like "shaheed." The government, meanwhile, held its own chehelom, blaming foreign-backed "terrorist" groups and calling for national unity.
Mass Depression and Economic Collapse
Beyond anger, Iranians face a "mass depression" compounded by a rapidly worsening economy. A resident of Karaj described daily price rises and economic collapse, noting that buying fruit has become a luxury. The plummeting currency and inflation have dampened cultural life, with prominent figures like actor Alireza Ostad Haji resigning from roles and committees in protest, breaking down over the death of protester Masoud Zatparvar.
Futility and Fear Amid Overwhelming Violence
Despite defiance, many protesters express futility, fearing that street protests cannot bring change against the state's overwhelming violence. Some have turned to supporting Reza Pahlavi, son of the ousted shah, who encourages protests and calls for U.S. strikes from exile. Chants in his support became common during January's protests, a shift from past indifference.
In a stark reflection of desperation, some Iranians now hope for an American attack, with one protester saying, "Every night, every hour, I wish I could hear U.S. strikes." However, others worry this could lead to more bloodshed and civil strife. The teacher in Tehran noted that many are tired and see no alternative, with friends reluctantly joining protests despite opposing Pahlavi.
Adding to the uncertainty, the United States has threatened strikes, positioning warships and fighter jets nearby while negotiating over Iran's nuclear program. Human rights groups estimate over 7,000 dead, far higher than the government's count of 3,117, with the teacher noting that nearly everyone knows someone killed, arrested, or wounded.
