Israel Warns Part Of Iranian Capital, Tehran, To Evacuate Ahead Of Strikes

Tel Aviv: The Middle East is on the brink of major war as the conflict between Israel and Iran escalates into a frenzy of airstrikes and missile attacks. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and the Iranian forces have been launching strikes and retaliation at each other. Meanwhile, the IDF issued a notification in Farsi to civilians in Tehran, asking them to evacuate the city before launching a massive strike. The Israeli military has warned residents in part of Iran's capital, Tehran, to evacuate ahead of strikes. 

"We just published an evacuation warning in Farsi for civilians in Tehran," the IDF stated in a post on X. "Israeli civilians do not get evacuation warnings before running to shelters. We aren’t the same." The IDF calculated message proved that even during an intense situation in the country, they want the conflict not to hamper any civilians' lives. Israel's message to the civilians in Tehran underlined the intensity of the conflict and the difference in how each side approaches its citizens' safety.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of Iranians were seen fleeing the capital city of Tehran in fear of impending Israeli airstrikes after the IDF's warning. Traffic jams have become a common sight on the highways leading out of Tehran as panicked citizens rush to escape the looming attacks.

Reports suggested that the situation on the ground is dire, with many residents expressing frustration and fear over the lack of public bomb shelters in the city. Iranian authorities have built several underground missile "cities," but the absence of adequate shelters has left residents scrambling to find safe places to wait out the strikes. Some are forced to rely on basements or subway stations for shelter.

"I have children and grandchildren. We have to stock up. No one knows what will happen and when this war will end," said Zeynab, a 67-year-old retired bank employee, highlighting the anxiety gripping the city. Arishia, a 29-year-old art teacher, echoed similar sentiments, "My parents are scared. Every night, there are attacks, no air raid sirens, and no shelters to go to. Why are we paying the price for the Islamic Republic's hostile policies?"

Despite the Iranian government's assurances that there are sufficient stocks of food and medicine, many residents remain unconvinced. "I do not trust the authorities. They said Israel would not dare to attack Iran and look where we are," said Zeynab, emphasising the widespread distrust of the government's ability to protect its citizens.

Conflict Impacts Oil Prices

The economic impact of the conflict is also being felt, with oil prices rising due to concerns about regional supply disruptions. The price of gold has also approached its historic peak due to increased demand for secure investments. The equity markets have experienced declines, but losses remain contained due to optimism that the conflict will not expand across the Middle East region.

The conflict has resulted in a major humanitarian crisis, with over 230 people killed in Iran and at least 14 in Israel. The situation is further complicated by the fact that Iran's internet access has been severely disrupted, with a nearly 50% decline in international internet access reported.

The global leaders have expressed concerns regarding the escalating conflict. The United States has called for restraint, while European leaders are working to find a diplomatic solution. The conflict has also raised concerns about the possible impact on global economic stability, particularly in the energy sector.

Further details regarding the conflict between the two countries are awaited.