Story perspectives

Tehran Residents Reflect on War, Internet Blockade Ahead of Nowruz

3/26/2026

Center

Zahra Defies Regime

Zahra, a grandmother in Tehran, prepares for Nowruz and laments the regime's internet blockade and loss of contact with her children.
She rejects a ceasefire, saying the regime has caused more pain than the war.
Samar, a student, warns that supporters driven by a culture of martyrdom may resist change.
Ali, a young man facing military service, refuses to fight, and the state maintains power to continue the conflict.

Left

Leila Celebrates Resilience

Nowruz celebrations among the Iranian diaspora are marked by sorrow and resilience amid ongoing conflicts in Iran and Lebanon.
Leila Namvar, an Iranian diaspora member, expresses grief over not connecting with family during a telecom blackout.
Despite threats from authorities, Nowruz rituals persist as a symbol of defiance against the regime.
Ali Beyk Zadeh emphasizes preserving Nowruz traditions.
Families place photographs of lost loved ones on Haft Seen tables.

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Zahra Defies Regime

Zahra, a grandmother in Tehran, prepares for Nowruz and laments the regime's internet blockade and loss of contact with her children.
She rejects a ceasefire, saying the regime has caused more pain than the war.
Samar, a student, warns that supporters driven by a culture of martyrdom may resist change.
Ali, a young man facing military service, refuses to fight, and the state maintains power to continue the conflict.

1 / 2