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As the effects of recent Israeli airstrikes begin to subside, daily life in Tehran, the capital of Iran, is steadily regaining its rhythm.
In the wake of an unofficial cease-fire, streets that had once emptied amid evacuation threats from both the United States and Israel are now filled again, with residents returning home and attempting to restore a sense of normalcy.
Traffic congestion has returned to its usual levels, and previously shuttered businesses such as cafes, shops, and offices have reopened. Crowds are gathering once more in central locations and residential neighborhoods. Despite visible relief among citizens eager to return to their routines, the mood remains complex, charged with both sorrow and frustration.
People on the streets of Tehran are not only grieving the loss of life and economic damage inflicted by the conflict but are also expressing deep resentment toward Israel and the United States. Many are particularly angered by the timing of the assault, which occurred while nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S. were still ongoing.
Though the cessation of hostilities has brought a sense of relief, many residents remain wary. The public atmosphere is one of cautious optimism—hope for peace tempered by fear that the conflict could easily reignite. Citizens are keeping their guard up while clinging to hope that the worst has passed.
In interviews conducted by Anadolu Agency near Tehran's busy Enqelab (Enghelab) Square, residents described their experiences and outlook on the unfolding situation. A local shopkeeper, Mehdi Piryayi, noted that his store had been closed for several days but reopened recently.
“We thank Allah the cease-fire has been achieved. We’re back to our normal lives now,” he said, adding that despite evacuation threats, he stayed in place. “They threatened us, but we stayed in our homes. Nothing happened.”
Diyana Guderzi, a university student, expressed pride in Iran’s response to the attacks. “We were in Tehran during the threats. We didn’t leave the city because we trust our country and our Leader,” she said, referring to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. “The city is crowded, and people are calm. I just came here to buy a book.”
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