By Staff Reporter
Tehran, Iran – 22 March 2026: Military and political authorities in Iran have projected defiance as the conflict with the United States and Israel intensifies, following widespread air strikes and targeted assassinations across the country.
Massive joint US-Israeli air raids struck multiple districts in Tehran overnight and extended to central Iran’s Isfahan city in the morning. These followed earlier attacks in Dezful, Andimeshk, and other western cities, signaling a widening theatre of conflict.
Israeli warplanes also targeted residential areas in northern provinces Gilan and Mazandaran, reportedly aiming at senior Iranian officials. While Iranian authorities confirmed casualties, details remain scarce. Israeli and US media suggest a senior drone commander was among those killed.
Despite the attacks, top Iranian officials emphasized retaliation and control over the battlefield. Former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared that Iranian strikes on Israel’s Dimona nuclear facilities marked a “new stage of battle,” claiming Israeli airspace is no longer secure. IRGC aerospace commander Majid Mousavi reinforced this stance in a social media post, which was echoed by pro-establishment supporters chanting calls for further strikes.
Ahmad-Reza Radan, Iran’s hardline police chief and a reported target, addressed supporters, taunting international powers and ridiculing European concerns, saying: “If they can’t hold on to Greenland, then send a request and we will come preserve it.”
The escalation follows US President Donald Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum demanding Tehran reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on its power plants. Iranian authorities warned they would retaliate against energy infrastructure across the region, including facilities in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait. An unverified map circulated by state-affiliated media even marked Doha and the central offices of Al Jazeera as potential targets, though state television later retracted the graphic without explanation.
Meanwhile, Iranians face mounting concerns about civilian impacts. A Tehran resident warned, “If the main power plants are bombed, it’s not going to be just a brief disruption; it could stop the flow of everything from water to gas.”
The conflict has also affected social and cultural life. Internet access remains restricted for the 23rd consecutive day—the longest blackout in the nation’s history—and celebrations for Nowruz, the Persian New Year, were subdued. Iconic footballer Ali Daei called for peace and welfare, drawing criticism from state-affiliated media for not condemning the US and Israel specifically.
State outlets continue to highlight Iranian military successes while downplaying damage from US-Israeli attacks. Some Iranian lawmakers have called for recognition of Iran as a global power and even demanded a veto-wielding permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council as part of any peace negotiations.
The judiciary and intelligence authorities have issued strict warnings, labeling foreign-based news channels as “terrorist” outlets and threatening severe penalties—including asset confiscation and execution—for sharing videos or information deemed anti-establishment.
With civilian infrastructure already impacted and casualties mounting, Iran’s messaging of resilience and victory contrasts sharply with the lived realities of many Iranians, as the conflict continues to escalate.
