The missile attack has also dimmed hopes for diplomatic progress with the West and other countries in the region.

The election of Masoud Pezeshkian as the new president in July had sparked optimism among moderate views. Some people saw him as a potential bridge in easing regional tensions.

But a Persian BBC viewer complained that “this attack is another step away from diplomacy and one step closer to conflict.”

“I fear that this war could be used as an excuse to intensify the crackdown against those of us who fight for freedom,” said one young activist, referring to the nationwide “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests that broke out two years ago .

Many worry that a new conflict could not only undermine calls for reform but also give the government the power to further suppress internal dissent.

Unlike previous escalations, this time there is growing fear of a potentially strong retaliatory response from Israel.

And many believe that Israel’s advanced military capabilities could lead to unprecedented destruction if a full-scale war were to break out.

“No one wants war, not the people, not even the officials,” said one commenter on social media.

This sense of vulnerability has made the situation more uncertain than ever before.

Amid rising tensions, some people even called for regime change.

“The only way to save Iran is not through war, but through overthrowing the current regime,” said another Persian BBC News viewer, urging the West to support the Iranians in their fight against the government.

However, many believe that the country’s future should be decided internally, free from any foreign intervention, to avoid the potential chaos that outside interference could cause.