Heavy security deployments, torched government buildings and shuttered banking systems now define daily life
By Sammy,
Heavy security deployments, torched government buildings and shuttered banking systems now define daily life in parts of Tehran, according to residents who managed to speak with foreign journalists this week. They described smashed ATMs, burned offices and shopkeepers at the Grand Bazaar being instructed by security forces to reopen despite near-empty streets, all under the watch of riot police, Basij units and plainclothes officers.
Those rare details emerged only after Iran partially lifted its communications blackout on Tuesday, restoring mobile voice service for the first time in more than four days. Several people inside the capital were able to place international calls to reporters abroad, even though text messaging and almost all internet access remain blocked, aside from a limited number of government-approved domestic sites.
The limited reopening coincided with renewed diplomatic maneuvering, as U.S. President Donald Trump said Tehran is seeking talks following his threats of possible military action. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed ongoing contact with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, but said Washington's proposals are unacceptable if paired with pressure.
Topics: Iran, Diplomacy
Reported by Sammy for Bernie News Network. See our editorial standards and corrections policy.