Panic in the streets, but relief for some: The mood in Iran

BBC:

The response within Iran to the US and Israeli attacks has been deeply mixed, with scenes of panic in some areas and relief in others at the prospect of the regime’s downfall.

It was around 09:40 local time (06:10 GMT) when Iranians in several cities reported hearing loud explosions.

Videos circulating on social media show people near the blast sites running in panic, with the sounds of screams and crying in the background.

But, says BBC Persian, at the same time there appears to be a sense of relief – even celebration – among those who believe the regime’s downfall can only come through military intervention.

In one video, a woman speaks with unmistakable relief, claiming that Ayatollah Khamenei’s residence has been hit.

Another clip shows teenagers at a school dancing and chanting that the strikes have happened, adding, “I love Trump.”

Many people had been anticipating a possible US attack. Since last night, long queues have formed at petrol stations, and many residents of the capital, Tehran, have begun leaving the city for the north, near the Caspian Sea, which they believe is safer.

With Iran coming under an almost total internet blackout since the attacks started, it has been difficult to contact anyone inside the country. Some people briefly managed to access the internet using methods such as SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet and virtual private networks, and may be able to do so again.