TEHRAN (Web Desk) – When Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced an interim agreement this week to end the conflict with the United States, he described it as a victory for Iran. However, many Iranians say the reality on the ground tells a different story.
After more than three months of US and Israeli airstrikes and a blockade on Iranian ports, many citizens are struggling with worsening economic conditions on top of years of sanctions. While the fighting has stopped for now, people continue to tighten their budgets and remain uncertain about the future.
Speaking to Reuters, several Iranians said they have little hope that the agreement will quickly improve living standards. Some fear growing economic hardship could trigger fresh protests, while others expect authorities to respond with another crackdown similar to previous demonstrations.
“I think 99% of people are in survival mode and just living day by day,” said Amir, a 34-year-old media company owner in Isfahan. “I don’t think anybody has any hopes anymore.”
Others echoed similar concerns, saying livelihoods have deteriorated steadily and many families are struggling to cope with rising prices. A Tehran-based student said even meeting friends at cafés has become unaffordable as costs continue to climb.
Supporters of the Islamic Republic, however, maintain that Iran emerged from the conflict stronger and more united. Some hardliners praised the agreement as a success while arguing that Tehran should have secured better terms.
Questions also remain over the durability of the deal, with many Iranians expressing doubts that it will bring lasting stability or prevent future military action.
In regions populated by ethnic minorities, concerns about increased repression remain particularly strong. Residents in western Iran’s Kurdistan region told Reuters that the conflict has deepened insecurity and strengthened the power of state security institutions.
Despite the ceasefire, many Iranians say uncertainty continues to dominate daily life, with economic pressures, political tensions and fears of renewed unrest overshadowing hopes for a more stable future.
