‘It’s truly hell here’: airstrikes, repression and water shortages become ‘new normal’ for Iranians

What Happened

US airstrikes have hit the Iranian port cities of Bandar Abbas and Jask nightly for nearly two weeks, with state media claiming strikes on 100 civilian vessels and damage to the Bonji desalination plant, leaving 20 villages without drinking water. Residents reported prolonged power cuts, extended government-imposed internet shutdowns, and water rationing amid temperatures above 40°C, describing a 'new normal' of fear and hardship. Meanwhile, Iran's human rights crisis deepens: Iran Human Rights recorded at least 400 executions since the start of the year, including of teenagers and protesters, as civilians fear further regime retaliation.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

US strikes on dual-use and civilian infrastructure risk a humanitarian crisis in hot southern Iran, where water access is critical. Combined with Iran's internal repression, the conflict traps civilians between external bombardment and state violence, eroding basic services and fueling desperation without clear political resolution.

Watch For

Further US strikes on Iranian infrastructure and any Iranian retaliation against US allies; sustainability of water supply in affected villages as temperatures rise; new execution figures from human rights monitors; international diplomatic response to civilian harm claims.