Iranian Atlantans struggle to contact family as unrest disrupts communication

Iranian Americans in metro Atlanta say they are anxiously waiting for messages from loved ones as unrest continues in Iran.

“It’s been very exciting, but also very stressful at the same time,” said Mayra Yazdari. “We’re worried… it’s kind of like an emotional roller coaster.”

Yazdari, who has lived in the United States for nine years, said the first hours of the unrest were filled with texts and calls from relatives inside Iran. But internet disruptions have made communication unreliable, leaving many checking their phones and hoping messages get through.

She said friends back home have told her they are ready for change.

“What I hear from close friends is, ‘We are willing to go back to the streets, but we need help,’” Yazdari said.

For Yazdari, the situation is deeply personal. She said she hopes to one day safely return to Iran and see her family again.

“We are hoping that we can go back, at least see our families, see our relatives, see our friends, see the country, and help to build the country for the next generation,” she said.