Daily Life in Tehran After the January 2026 Massacre: One Month Until Nowruz

2. Daily Life in Tehran: Resilience Amidst Repression

The Everyday Struggles

Life in Tehran remains a delicate balance of survival, hope, and resistance. Despite the heavy presence of security forces patrolling the streets, ordinary citizens continue their routines—shopping, working, studying, and celebrating cultural traditions. Markets buzz with activity, though many vendors face economic hardship due to sanctions and internal instability.

The Role of Women

Women in Tehran continue to play a vital role in social life, often risking their safety to participate in protests or express dissent. From wearing traditional chadors to engaging in underground activism, they embody resilience. The recent crackdown has led to increased arrests and repression, but many women remain determined to advocate for greater rights and freedoms.

Youth and Student Movements

The youth and student communities, particularly in Tehran’s universities, are at the forefront of resistance. Despite surveillance and repression, underground networks organize protests, distribute leaflets, and promote social change. Nowruz represents a beacon of hope for many young Iranians, symbolizing renewal and the possibility of a different future.

February 21, 2026 | 7:04 pm