In Westboro, Lavender Pastry was established by Shirin Mortazavi’s family just over a year ago after leaving Iran due to repression and economic challenges. Upon hearing about the U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in Iran, Mortazavi expressed cautious optimism, believing it could lead to liberation for the Iranian people.
While some members of Ottawa’s Iranian community view the attacks as a potential turning point towards freedom, others are concerned about exacerbating civilian hardships. Mortazavi expressed hope that the airstrikes would bring an end to decades of authoritarian rule after peaceful protests within Iran faced violent suppression.
Iran has been experiencing unrest for approximately two months, with widespread demonstrations against the government and economic struggles. Mortazavi highlighted the Iranian people’s determination to dismantle the current regime entirely.
Contrary to those hopeful for external intervention, some members of Ottawa’s Iranian community, like Shahram Golestaneh, emphasized that sustainable political changes must originate from Iranians themselves. Recent protests in Iran have illustrated the populace’s desire for transformation.
Despite the belief that change should come from within, not all Iranian Canadians in Ottawa support the military actions. Mehdi Fallahi, host of Ottawa Persian Radio, expressed distress over the airstrikes, emphasizing the loss of innocent lives and infrastructure damage in war.
President Donald Trump depicted the airstrikes as part of a massive operation to dismantle Iran’s military and government. Prime Minister Mark Carney voiced support for U.S. efforts to halt Iran’s nuclear program and advised Canadians in Iran to seek shelter. Ottawa Police Service also increased monitoring due to the evolving situation in Iran.
The Iranian diaspora in Ottawa remains divided on the implications of the airstrikes, reflecting a mix of hope for change, concerns for civilian well-being, and reservations about external military involvement.
