Bread lines, deserted streets and fear of airstrikes in Tehran: Going outside is a risky gamble'

"Living in Tehran today is like living in a city under siege, seemingly abandoned by its inhabitants. Ambulances speed through the practically deserted streets. Fear pervades everything, and people live in a state of constant tension, punctuated by the drone of fighter jets, the wail of air raid sirens, and nearby explosions."

"Our daily lives are now reduced to adapting to shortages of electricity, water, food, and medicine. Even the most basic things have become difficult. The war has completely changed our way of life. We're just focused on survival, and every time we go out, it's a risky gamble."

"Group messages and messaging apps have become a lifeline. Essential goods are arriving at markets irregularly and vendors are rationing quantities based on what they receive from the government or local distributors. In these closed groups, people share information about where to find bread, when water will arrive, where medicine is being distributed, and which emergency room doctor is nearby."

Following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes beginning last Saturday, Tehran has transformed into a city under siege with widespread shortages and constant danger. Residents queue for hours at bakeries operating at half capacity, while ambulances navigate deserted streets amid air raid sirens and explosions. Daily life centers on survival, with people adapting to critical shortages of electricity, water, food, and medicine. Messaging apps and group chats have become essential communication tools, allowing residents to share information about bread availability, water distribution schedules, medicine locations, and nearby emergency services. The psychological toll is severe, with constant tension and fear permeating daily activities. Even basic necessities have become difficult to obtain, fundamentally altering how residents navigate their city.

Read at english.elpais.com