As the Iranian regime faces military attacks from the U.S. and Israel, some Iranians, like Armin al-Assadi, an Iranian-American who left Iran as a child, express gratitude towards the U.S. for what they perceive as liberation. Al-Assadi, reflecting on the mood in Iran post-strike, shared that he witnessed people celebrating just a short distance from the missile impact site, suggesting a flicker of hope for the first time in decades.
“It’s wild,” he noted. “People are singing and dancing in the streets. I find hope in being bombed,” he added during an appearance on “Fox & Friends Weekend.” Al-Assadi mentioned that this appreciation stems from a deep desperation felt by many.
Following the airstrike that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, President Trump claimed the U.S. had successfully targeted most of Iran’s missile and drone manufacturing facilities as part of Operation Epic Fury. Although minimal footage has emerged from Iran post-airstrike, al-Assadi observed some expressions of support for the U.S. campaign, noting that even those who have never traveled to America are partaking in celebratory dances.
Additionally, he mentioned that the “underground church” in Iran is praying for U.S. forces. However, his feelings regarding the conflict are complicated, as he conveyed a mix of emotions watching the situation unfold.
Al-Assadi expressed a sense of hope, despite the harrowing circumstances, saying, “You can’t help but feel that way. I feel grateful and hopeful that Iran may be free again for the first time in 47 years.” Meanwhile, the Pentagon launched an investigation into claims that a significant number of children were killed in the airstrike.
He pointed out the difference between the Iranian regime and its people, suggesting that while the leadership may not support the conflict, the general populace displays a yearning for change. “You can create a strange narrative that Iran is against this war, but the people are not,” he stated.
The ongoing war has seen intensified rhetoric from both sides, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accusing the U.S. of initiating what he described as an “illegal war.” As the situation develops, reactions from Iranians and Americans alike continue to reveal a tapestry of conflicting sentiments amidst the chaos.
