As tensions surrounding Iran continue to grow, the world is witnessing what could be an extremely important turning point for the country’s government. Iran has been ruled by the Islamic Republic since the 1979 revolution, nearly half a century. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has held the country’s highest political and religious power for 36 years until his death on Feb. 28 during a series of joint United States and Israeli airstrikes aimed at high-ranking Iranian officials.
Khamenei’s government has faced widespread criticism from human rights organizations for strict control over speech, protests and anyone going against his beliefs. More recently, protests across Iran and especially those sparked by economic struggles and women’s rights movements, have been fought off physically by security forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Reports from international groups say thousands of protesters have been arrested and even killed, which has created anger toward the government among people both inside the country and outside looking in.
For students with relatives still in Iran, staying in touch has become more difficult as the conflict continues. Persian club member, sophomore Kameron Ardestani said communication with his distant family members has been limited because of government restrictions. “Unfortunately the government has had two major internet shut-downs in the past three months, which has severely limited communication. When the internet is back on, there are claims the government monitors text messages and phone calls so we have to limit phone calls and cannot talk about sensitive topics,” Ardestani said.
Even when contact is possible, the uncertainty of what is happening has created stress for Iranian families living abroad. “I’ve been extremely worried these past three months and have gone many nights without sleep. My dad and grandad are constantly up till three or four in the morning watching news and calling friends and family,” Ardestani said.
Despite the worry, Iranian Americans also say they feel hopeful that the current conflict could eventually lead to change in Iran’s government. “We are very worried for the thousands of lives at hand, yet are both sad for the deaths of 40,000+, and excited for the possibility of a regime change after 47 years of misery,” Ardestani said.
Senior Radin Pourassad, president of the Persian Club said he also feels optimistic about the future. “Obviously the additional casualties from the war are sad, but I’m mostly optimistic, the outcome seems promising for a free Iran,” Pourassad said.
The question of foreign involvement from Israel and the US in Iran is another major part of the discussion. There is speculation online about whether or not the involvement will benefit or harm Iran in the long run. “This is a dire situation where Iranians have no other hope for freedom other than [Israel and the US’s] help. If and when the Islamic Republic falls, it will be a win-win situation for both the people of Iran and the U.S. and Israel governments,” Pourassad said.
The situation has also affected Iran’s national women’s soccer team during the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. After their opening match, several of the team’s players refused to sing the national anthem, which viewers saw as a quiet protest against the Iranian government. After the tournament, players asked to stay in Australia, saying they feared punishment if they returned to Iran.
As the situation continues to develop, Iranian Americans, along with the world are closely watching the events unfold, hoping for safety for their families and a future where Iran can move forward.
