Rising Concerns About Fear and Anxiety Among Iranian Americans in Los Angeles as Calls for Change Grow in Iran
Fear and Anxiety Rise Among Iranian Americans Amid Protests in Iran
LOS ANGELES – The Iranian-American community in Southern California is grappling with a heightened sense of fear and anxiety as protests continue to erupt across Iran, marked by severe government crackdowns. The turmoil has left many feeling helpless while they watch the escalating violence unfold from afar.
Los Angeles boasts the largest Iranian population outside Iran, with approximately 125,000 individuals residing in the area. Many community members are closely monitoring news reports, deeply concerned for family and friends amidst the turmoil. In Westwood, known as "Little Tehran," residents express a profound mix of anger, grief, and helplessness as the situation deteriorates.
“It’s an oppressive regime killing its own people for rebelling,” said Seena K., a member of the community with close ties to Iran.
Iranians have been protesting for political change for weeks, prompting a harsh government response characterized by internet blackouts, mass arrests, and deadly force. Human rights organizations estimate that at least 2,500 individuals have died since the protests began.
“Anybody who is on this regime’s side — you must be deranged,” Seena added.
Former President Donald Trump commented on the situation Tuesday, encouraging Iranians to persist in their protests and warning that those responsible for the deaths of demonstrators would face consequences.
Local faith leaders are also voicing their distress over the violent events unfolding in Iran. Pastor Ara Torosian from Cornerstone West L.A. Church, who emigrated from Iran 15 years ago, shared his anguish. “Iran is bleeding right now. We need help from Western countries. People are being killed in the streets. There’s bloodshed everywhere,” he said.
Torosian recounted hearing harrowing accounts from contacts still in Iran. “Today I heard stories from our people back home — so many people were killed,” he said. “It’s a massacre. It’s a genocide.”
As the unrest persists, Iranian Americans in Los Angeles find themselves in a state of waiting, watching, and hoping for a future change. “We need a free Iran,” Torosian emphasized.
A rally advocating for Iranian freedom is scheduled for Sunday afternoon outside the federal building in downtown Los Angeles.
