Los Angeles – The Iranian diaspora in the United States is feeling the reverberations of the six‑month war that began when the United States and Israel launched the first strikes against Iran. From longtime monarchist activists to newer arrivals who fled recent crackdowns, opinions on the conflict and its outcomes differ sharply.
Divided Views Among Anti‑Regime Activists
Arezo Rashidian, a monarchist activist aligned with Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, welcomed the initial military action, hoping it would lead to “targeted attacks on bases to bring down that regime.” Six months later, Rashidian says that optimism has faded. “We really wanted regime change … it’s been six months now, and it didn’t get to that point,” she told CNN, describing a mood of frustration and uncertainty among many anti‑regime supporters.
Rashidian reports that family members still in Iran describe a renewed climate of fear. She says people are increasingly reluctant to discuss politics or their involvement in the January protests, fearing surveillance and retaliation. “Now that the war is a little bit quieter, the secret police are starting to mobilize,” she added.
Human‑Rights Concerns and Sanctions
Recent reports have highlighted Iran’s renewed enforcement of mandatory hijab laws, with videos showing women publicly admonished for their clothing and businesses facing scrutiny for alleged dress‑code violations. Rashidian also mentioned arrests, executions and broader security crackdowns, though CNN could not independently verify those claims.
Despite disappointment, Rashidian continues to back tougher sanctions, hoping they will “tighten the rope” around the regime. The Trump administration recently threatened further measures, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicating new steps to target a complex network that helps Iranian entities evade existing sanctions. However, the anticipated “economic D‑Day” announcement was delayed, and the administration is focusing on expanding enforcement of current sanctions rather than rolling out major new measures.
Perspectives From the Broader Diaspora
Aria Rostami, a 38‑year‑old Iranian‑American museum professional who grew up in Southern California, says the war has altered how he relates to other Iranian Americans. “I was really disheartened by the community when they were on the streets cheering the war,” he told CNN. Rostami says the conflict exposed deep divisions, leaving him uncertain about the political leanings of fellow Iranians he encounters.
Rostami questions why the United States should be involved in another Middle‑East war, citing the outcomes of Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya over the past two decades. He believes many supporters of the war were sold false expectations and feel “people are being lied to, manipulated, played for a fool.” Yet he also acknowledges that those who backed the intervention experienced genuine pain and disappointment.
Looking Ahead
The Iranian American community remains split between those who continue to push for stronger sanctions and regime change, and those who warn that further military escalation could deepen civilian suffering and regional instability. As the war’s intensity eases, the diaspora’s internal debate is likely to persist, reflecting the varied histories of exile, repression and hopes for Iran’s future.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
