Reuters :
Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election drew mixed reactions among ordinary Iranians, with some fearing a heightened risk of war and economic hardship but others hoping his hardline stance might bring political change in Iran.
“I am so glad Trump won. I hope he continues his maximum pressure on the Islamic Republic and that it leads to the collapse of this regime,” housewife Zohre, 42, told Reuters by phone from Tehran.
Some Iranians like retired teacher Hamidreza feared further economic pressure with Trump in the White House if he continues the same tough policy he adopted in his 2017-2021 first term.
“I am disappointed Trump won.
It means more economic pressure, the risk of a war with Israel. I am deeply concerned,” said Hamidreza, 66, in the northern city of Rasht.
“I don’t care who the U.S. president is. My main concern is Iran’s economy. If they lift sanctions on Iran, that would be a good thing,” said government employee Nader, 34, a father of two in the southern city of Ahvaz.
“Everyone is happy, and I am thrilled. Trump is a no-nonsense leader who will put pressure on the clerical rulers. This is good for the Iranian people who seek a democratic leadership,” said Parastou, a 21-year-old student in Tehran.
Like Zohre, Hamidreza and Nader, Parastou declined to be identified in full due to the sensitivity of the issue.
