Tehran's streets presented a facade of normalcy on Friday, January 15, as shops reopened and traffic resumed following a night of heightened anxiety. CGTN correspondent Sepehr Saremi documented the cautiously calm atmosphere after unverified reports of potential military action against Iran circulated widely, prompting authorities to temporarily close airspace.
While bakeries and markets operated normally, many residents expressed unease about escalating regional tensions. "We've grown accustomed to living with uncertainty," said a local bookstore owner who declined to be named, reflecting the mood observed in commercial districts.
The Iranian capital remains largely disconnected from global digital networks, with internet access restricted for the third consecutive day. Authorities recently restored international calling services, enabling limited communication with overseas relatives – a critical lifeline for families separated by recent events.
Analysts suggest the digital blackout complicates verification of circulating rumors, while government officials maintain the measures ensure national security. With regional diplomatic efforts continuing behind closed doors, Tehran's residents face the familiar challenge of maintaining daily routines amid geopolitical storms.
