Los Angeless Iranian Diaspora Confronts US War on Iran

Protests Erupt in Los Angeles Over US-Iran Conflict

A divide has emerged within Los Angeles’s Iranian diaspora community, with two opposing groups holding protests on opposite sides of the city. On the Westside, supporters of the US strikes against Iran gathered, waving flags and calling for regime change. Meanwhile, a separate group outside Los Angeles City Hall protested the war, chanting “Hands off Iran” and condemning President Donald Trump’s involvement.

The Iranian diaspora in California is estimated to be around 375,000 people, with the majority residing in Los Angeles County. The community has been shaped by various events, including the Iran-Iraq War and the 1979 revolution, which led to the overthrow of the US-backed monarchy. Since then, Iran has been governed as an Islamic republic under a supreme leader.

Recent developments have sparked mixed emotions among community members. Some see the war as an opportunity for regime change, while others view it as a disaster that could cause immense suffering in Iran. Anxiety is a common feeling among many, with some expressing concerns about the impact on their loved ones back home.

The US and Israel’s joint attack on Iran on February 28, which targeted Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound, has been a point of contention. Some community members celebrated Khamenei’s death, while others expressed relief at his removal from power. However, many residents fear for the safety of their loved ones in Iran due to the ongoing conflict and internet blackout.

The situation is further complicated by the government-imposed internet blackout in Iran, which has limited the diaspora’s ability to follow events back home. The blackout is attributed to both the bombing campaign’s toll on the telecommunications network and government-imposed restrictions.

Source: Al Jazeera