Iran War: Ghostly Quiet, Rising Casualties

0:00This is Sydney News Today, powered by AI and presented by the Daily News Now. One week into intense aerial strikes by the United States and Israel, on Iran, Tehran's normally vibrant streets with 10 million residents have turned, ghostly quiet. Shops are closed, caches scarce, and explosions echo every half hour amid plumes of smoke. The death toll has surpassed 1,000, including over 160 young girls killed in a school bombing on the first day. Meanwhile, Iran's regime has imposed a total internet blackout, making it tough for civilians to communicate or get warnings about incoming attacks. Unlike in Israel or Gulf states, there's no alert system, no bomb shelters, and little effort to protect people, leaving families anxious and isolated, as daily life grinds to a halt. People inside Iran share mixed feelings through smuggled messages. Many young residents express fear and frustration, blaming the regime for the war and hoping

1:00strikes might spark change. Others, especially regime supporters, say the attacks have rallied the nation, with nightly chance against the U.S. President and Israeli leaders. Feeling the air, reports show strikes hitting over 100,700 targets, mostly military, but also damaging hospitals, schools, a sports stadium, and even the historic Golisthand Palace, a UNESCO site from the 1800s. Human rights groups warn civilian casualties will rise, since bases are near populated areas. As the conflict spreads across the Middle East with no end in sight, analysts doubt quick regime change, despite early celebrations over the Supreme, leaders' death. Protests are risky under threats of harsh punishment, and both sides vow to fight on for weeks or months. This story is made possible by our sponsor, Comfort, you can hear. Sound you can relax into...