‘I am getting more scared’: Tehranis brace for ‘inevitable’ US-Iran war
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 22, 2026
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Tehran residents are grappling with growing fears of an impending US-Iran war, as tensions rise in the Middle East. Hamid, a Tehran resident, shared his struggles with sleeplessness due to anxiety about his family’s safety. His concerns reflect those of many Iranians who lived through last year’s intense conflict between Iran and Israel. The fear of renewed hostilities has left residents on edge, with some relying on medication to cope with their stress.
The city was rocked by airstrikes last June when Israel launched an unprecedented military campaign targeting Iranian nuclear sites. This conflict erupted as Iran was preparing for crucial talks with the United States, which had joined in attacking Iranian targets. The attacks led to a swift response from Iran, including drone and missile strikes, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
Currently, Tehran has resumed negotiations with Washington, but the discussions remain contentious. While Iran insists that the talks focus solely on its nuclear program, the US seeks broader concessions, including restrictions on Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional armed groups. This divergence complicates efforts to resolve the ongoing tensions.
The potential resurgence of conflict adds another layer of uncertainty for Iranians, particularly in Tehran, where memories of last year’s war still linger. Many fear that history could repeat itself, with devastating consequences for civilians caught in the crossfire. The situation underscores the fragile state of Middle East diplomacy and highlights the broader implications of US-Iran relations on global stability.
For readers interested in world affairs, this story sheds light on the human cost of political and military tensions between major powers. The emotional struggles of Tehran residents and the high stakes involved make it clear that any
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/22/2026