100,000 Flee Tehran as Iran War Escalates

Nearly 100,000 people left Iran’s capital during the first two days of US-Israeli airstrikes, according to the United Nations, highlighting the growing internal displacement caused by the escalating conflict.

International media reports described Tehran as resembling a near-empty city, with many residents leaving after authorities advised people to move to safer areas while air attacks continued.

Large parts of the capital have seen reduced activity, with relatively empty streets and partial disruptions to daily life. Many residents have remained indoors amid concerns about security and access to essential supplies.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees said the movement of people has largely remained within Iran. Between 1,000 and 2,000 vehicles are reportedly leaving Tehran each day toward northern provinces, while there has not yet been a significant increase in crossings at international borders.

At the start of the conflict, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council urged residents of Tehran and several other cities to relocate to safer areas whenever possible as US and Israeli airstrikes targeted sites across the country. Authorities also ordered schools and public gatherings closed until further notice.

Local reporting indicated that traffic in Tehran has dropped noticeably compared with normal conditions, though some residents remain in their homes and basic services continue operating.

The developments come as the war involving Iran enters its sixth day, with the United States and Israel continuing strikes on targets inside Iran while Tehran responds with attacks against Israel and US interests in the Gulf, raising fears of wider regional escalation.