**'Struggling for Freedom': Young Iranians Split Over Israeli Action Against Regime**

**Amid the turmoil between Israel and Iran, young Iranians voice divided opinions on the conflict, reflecting a complex relationship with external military actions and the hope for genuine change at home.**

Last Friday marked a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and Iran as Israeli forces launched extensive airstrikes against Iranian targets, prompting retaliatory missile fire from Tehran. In a direct message to the Iranian populace, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the military actions targeted not only Iran's nuclear ambitions but also sought to "clear the path for you to achieve your freedom." While some factions within the fragmented Iranian opposition embraced his statement, others expressed skepticism regarding his true intentions.

The regime in Iran has successfully suppressed official opposition groups, particularly through severe crackdowns that have included mass executions and imprisonments. Consequently, most organized opposition has emerged from abroad, with prominent factions such as the pro-monarchy supporters of Reza Pahlavi and the Mojahedin-e Khalq Organisation (MEK/MKO) gaining traction.

Due to stringent internet restrictions imposed by the Iranian authorities, it has become increasingly challenging for journalists to communicate with individuals inside Iran. However, several young Iranians, who have previously protested against the regime and have chosen to remain anonymous for their safety, provided insights into their perspectives on the ongoing conflict.

Tara, a 26-year-old resident of Tehran shared, “When Israel warns of strikes, authorities cut internet access to prevent information sharing and to increase casualties.” She accused the government of intentionally creating chaos through checkpoints that funnel traffic into targeted zones. “The idea of unity against an enemy is laughable. The real enemy has been the Islamic Republic, killing us slowly for decades,” she asserted.

Despite a general wariness about Israeli actions, Sima, 27, expressed her exasperation, wishing that Israel would expedite the process of confronting the Iranian regime. “I wish they’d just finish it. While I don’t support the actions of Israel, I want to see the end of the IRGC and Khamenei's rule,” she stated.

Amir, 23, voiced unequivocal support for Israel's strikes, believing that there are no other entities capable of challenging the regime effectively. Reflecting on the mass protests that erupted after the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, he lamented, “We tried to overthrow them, but they killed us in the streets. It’s only right they feel fear for once.”

The chants of “woman, life, freedom” from those protests echoed in Netanyahu’s Friday address, a reminder of the Iranian resistance’s struggle. However, a significant contingent remains cautious, even critical, of Netanyahu’s motives. Navid, 25, pointed out, “I protested with a belief in regime change, but now I’m unsure how we can overthrow this regime without causing our nation irreparable damage.”

There are also sentiments of disillusionment reflected by Darya, 26, who indicated the lack of widespread protests in response to Netanyahu’s call. “Bombs won't inspire unity. Netanyahu hides behind nationalism while targeting civilians. Rebuilding the nation will take years,” she stated.

In a candid admission, Arezou, 22, expressed the inner conflict many feel: “I detest the regime, yet I’m haunted by thoughts of my loved ones as bombs fall around us. I don't think Israel genuinely cares about us.”

Mina, 27, succinctly framed the dilemma: “I want the regime gone, but not through violence and destruction. Israel isn’t our savior; more bloodshed isn’t a pathway to freedom. We seek an exit that preserves our humanity and dignity.”

While debates continue, the backdrop of escalating conflict serves to amplify the ongoing struggle of the Iranian people, caught in a web of oppression at home and the complexity of foreign intervention.