Ask Onix
Trump issues warning to Iran
US President Donald Trump has threatened to target Iranian bridges and power plants if Tehran's leadership refuses to comply with his demands to end the ongoing conflict. The statement followed an airstrike on a bridge under construction in Karaj, west of Tehran, which killed eight people and injured nearly 100.
Bridge attack during Nowruz celebrations
On Thursday, US warplanes struck the B1 suspension bridge in Karaj twice while civilians gathered nearby for the 13th day of Nowruz festivities. Witnesses reported picnickers in the area at the time of the attack. Iranian media confirmed the casualties and described the bridge as a civilian structure still under development.
Iranian officials condemn strike
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced the attack on social media, calling it an attempt to break the Iranian people's resolve. He argued that targeting civilian infrastructure, such as unfinished bridges, would not force Iran into submission but would instead reveal the attacker's desperation. Araghchi also questioned Trump's earlier vow to bomb Iran "back to the stone ages," asking whether the US president intended to erase the region's modern energy infrastructure.
Public reaction amid internet blackout
Iran's government has maintained an internet blackout for 35 days, making communication difficult. Some citizens have bypassed restrictions using satellite services like Starlink, though possession of such devices carries a two-year prison sentence. Those who spoke to BBC Persian expressed fear and frustration, regardless of their political stance.
"I feel helpless. [Trump] posts shamelessly about attacking our bridge. I don't know how much further this is going to go. Why is no-one standing up to him? He's really taking us back to the Stone Age."
A woman in her 20s, Tehran
A young Tehran resident echoed her despair: "We'll end up with a ruined country. I'm disappointed and saddened to see Iran destroyed while I can't do anything. My country is being destroyed more and more every day."
Even some pro-war Iranians expressed concern. A Karaj local, who described himself as supportive of military action, questioned the rationale behind targeting the bridge, which he said could have eased traffic congestion. A woman in her 40s in Tehran, who backs the US-Israeli campaign, admitted surprise at the strike but speculated there must be a strategic reason.
Hardliners call for retaliation
Pro-establishment Iranians on social media condemned the attack and Trump's threats, demanding that Iran's armed forces retaliate by striking bridges in neighboring countries hosting US bases. Others interpreted the Karaj strike as evidence of broader US and Israeli intentions to dismantle Iran rather than limit military targets.
The BBC reports that some officials, journalists, and pro-government users retain internet access despite the blackout, suggesting selective enforcement of restrictions.
