‘I haven’t slept for days’: Iranians describe mounting desperation after a month of war

Published on April 3, 2026

“I haven’t slept for days,” says Sadiq, a shopkeeper in Tehran, his voice trembling with fatigue and despair. As the sun sets over the capital, the darkness seems to amplify the anxiety felt Iranians following a month of intensified regional conflict. The war has not only claimed lives abroad; it is also wreaking havoc on everyday life inside Iran, where fear, uncertainty, and economic pain have become the new normal.

Sadiq shares his concerns about the strikes that have expanded beyond borders. “Every day, I hear of bombings and strikes. Even when we try to stay informed, the news makes us anxious about what might happen next,” he says. Like many in the country, he worries about the government’s increasing control over information and the potential for repression against dissent.

In neighborhoods across Tehran, the economic impact of the ongoing conflicts is glaringly apparent. Inflation has surged, and basic goods are becoming significantly pricier. Fatemeh, a mother of three, explains how her family is struggling to make ends meet. “We used to be able to buy enough food for the week, but now we count coins and often have to skip meals,” she shares. Fatemeh worries not only about her family’s food security but also about the children’s future in a country gripped instability.

While ordinary Iranians are feeling the strain, the government’s response has only stoked fears. Reports have surfaced of increased crackdowns on protests and dissenting voices, further complicating matters for those who express their bewilderment over the war and economic strife. “Every time I hear loud sounds, I freeze. I worry about what will happen if I speak out as well,” says Amir, a university student. He reflects on the consequences faced have tried to organize peaceful protests.

As the situation unfolds, social media platforms in Iran are being carefully monitored, creating a chilling atmosphere for free expression. The government’s attempts to restrict information flow have only fueled speculation and distrust within communities. Many are left to navigate a maze of unverified reports, increasing anxiety in a populace already exhausted from uncertainty.

Healthcare workers, too, are feeling the pressures as hospitals brace for potential casualties amid ongoing regional hostilities. A doctor from Shiraz describes the ordeal: “We are prepared for the worst, but every day feels heavier. It’s devastating to think about what this conflict could mean for our patients and our families.” The stress and strain placed on the healthcare system only adds to the emotional toll on individuals who are already fraught with worry.

As the month of conflict drags on, ordinary Iranians find themselves grappling with sleepless nights and a palpable sense of desperation. “It feels like we are all living in a nightmare,” Sadiq concludes. “I just hope for peace, yet each day brings more fear.” The struggle to maintain hope amidst turmoil serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

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