Iranian immigrant details life under the regime | FOX 10 Talks

Iranian American Kimi Varaste reflects on her family’s experience living in Iran and the long-standing tensions with the Iranian regime. She details her journey immigrating to the United States as an 11-year-old child with her father. Speaking on recent events, she shares how her family anticipated US military action in Iran, viewing it as a potential step toward freedom from a government that has held power for 47 years.  Varaste describes the personal emotional impact of these developments, including an internet shutdown on February 28 that temporarily prevented her from contacting her family in Iran. About 10 days later, she reconnected with a cousin who expressed hope for freedom despite the reality of nearby bombings and potential casualties. Addressing common concerns among Americans regarding an extended conflict, she offers her perspective on the political situation, expressing her belief that the conflict will not extend beyond two years.  She also reflects on her childhood memories of anti-American messaging taught in Iranian schools, contrasting government propaganda with what she describes as a broader warmth among the Iranian people toward the West. She discusses the economic struggles facing ordinary citizens in Iran, noting severe price increases and sharing an individual story about the lack of access to basic necessities. Additionally, she highlights local weekly community demonstrations held on Sundays at Scottsdale and Camelback Roads, as well as Fridays at ASU, aimed at raising awareness.