Discussions are increasing in the cafes of Iran's capital, Tehran, where customers from various ages and backgrounds gather to talk about the effects of the U.S.-Israeli war on their country. In the "Iranit" neighborhood, Reza, a popular cafe owner, mentioned that the war has nearly closed the cafe, with only the mafia game room remaining open, where patrons congregate to escape the war news.
Arash, one of the customers, stated that the game serves as a satirical simulation of reality, where players seek out traitors. He expressed concern over the ongoing accusations of treason, noting that the war has closed many doors but has increased Iranians' appetite for finding new traitors.
Event Details
On the tenth day of the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, Al Jazeera monitored life in Tehran's cafes, reflecting the diverse state of Iranian society in terms of class and opinions. In Vank Square, a small cafe has transformed into a political forum where intellectuals gather to discuss developments in the war.
In one corner, a picture of a girl without a hijab wearing military attire sparked a debate about transformations in the Iranian power structure, with some pointing to the rise of the Revolutionary Guard at the expense of the clergy. Discussions reveal that the Guard seeks to redefine power from a national security perspective, which may open the door for more freedom in dress.
Background & Context
These discussions come amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, as American and Israeli bombings on the country increase. Political activist Abd al-Ridha Dawari expresses a new concept of courage, indicating that the courage to make peace requires greater strength than the courage to engage in battles.
Dawari emphasizes that the courage to make peace is the most important, even if it is less celebrated, and hopes that his country's negotiating delegation will make bold decisions. The discussions in cafes also address the Iranian nuclear program, where Dr. Mohammad Hossein Shakouri points out that changing the religious fatwa for making a nuclear bomb could lead to Iran's international isolation.
Impact & Consequences
Discussions in cafes make it clear that Iranian society is experiencing a state of anxiety and anticipation. Shakouri believes that the opportunity to create a nuclear bomb has been lost for years, and that Iran is using enriched uranium as a bargaining chip in negotiations. He also notes that the clergy's faction has been the real obstacle to developing the nuclear program.
In the upscale neighborhoods of northern Tehran, cafes are crowded with youth discussing the war and its effects on their daily lives. Baran, a software engineer, expresses her desire to forget the war, but she realizes that conversations about it do not cease.
Regional Significance
The impacts of the U.S.-Iranian war extend beyond Iranian borders, raising concerns in the Arab region. Fears are growing regarding escalating tensions and their effect on regional stability. The discussions in Tehran's cafes reflect divisions within Iranian society, which may have repercussions on relations with Arab countries.
In conclusion, Tehran's cafes reflect the concerns of the Iranian street, where opinions range from despair to hope, illustrating a deep desire for a dignified life and a secure future.