The Bulletin June 17, 2025
Why it matters: The exodus followed an urgent warning issued by President Trump, who wrote on Truth Social on Monday: "Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Videos and images posted to social media showed bumper-to-bumper traffic on a highway out of Tehran, with little traffic heading into the city. Israel launched surprise airstrikes on Iran on Friday, saying the assault was necessary to prevent its adversary from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran has long denied Israel's repeated accusation that it seeks nuclear weapons. Israel's strikes have killed at least 224 people since Friday, while Iran's retaliatory strikes have so far killed 24 people in Israel and wounded at least 500.
Read more in-depth coverage:
Muslim World Unites in Response to Israel Over Iran Strikes
TL/DR: Tehran's residents have painted a picture of hysteria and chaos in the capital city amid intensifying strikes.
What happens now? Many shops in Tehran were closed on Tuesday, and the city's ancient Grand Bazaar was also shut, according to the Associated Press. Long lines for gas also formed in the city. Metro stations and schools in Tehran have been opened by Iranian authorities to be used as shelters.
Deeper reading Iran Capital Evacuation Videos Show People Fleeing Tehran
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