Iranian Americans in Southern California: Hope and Dread Over Iran Protests
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Tabby Refael’s messages to Iran are going unanswered.
For weeks, she has called, texted and sent voice memos to loved ones in Tehran, where massive crowds have demanded the overthrow of the country’s authoritarian government.
Are you OK? Refael – a West Los Angeles-based writer and Iranian refugee - has texted, over and over. Do you have enough food? Do you have enough water? Are you safe?
No response.
when the protests, initially spurred by economic woes, began in late December, Refael consistently got answers. But those stopped last week, when iranian authorities imposed a near-total internet blackout, at the same time that calls to telephone landlines were also failing to connect. Videos circulating online show rows and rows of body bags. And human rights groups say the government is waging a deadly crackdown on protesters in Tehran and other cities,with more then 2,000 killed.
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Police on Monday announced that the driver, Calor Madanescht, 48, was arrested on suspicion of reckless driving. He was released Monday afternoon, according to L.A. County sheriff’s inmate records.
Video shared with The Times by attendees showed protesters trying to pull him from the vehicle and continuing to punch and lash out at him as police took him into custody.
In a statement posted to X on Sunday, First Assistant U.S. Att
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* Yebri’s Views on Iran: The article accurately quotes Yebri’s strong stance against the Iranian regime and his hope for its overthrow. His public statements, including those on social media and during campaign events, consistently reflect these views. His X (formerly Twitter) account continues to show consistent advocacy for iranian democracy as of January 2026.
* Alex Mohajer’s Background: The article states Mohajer was born in Orange County to an Iranian immigrant mother and visited Iran at age 14. This aligns with reporting from the Daily Pilot regarding his 2024 State Senate bid as of March 2023. No contradictory information has emerged.
* Mohajer’s Views on Iran: The article accurately portrays Mohajer’s more nuanced view of Iran, emphasizing his positive experiences and desire for open travel. He continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions and maintaining connections with the Iranian diaspora. The Iranian American Democrats of California website, where he serves as Vice President, reflects this approach as of January 2026.
* Mohajer’s 2024 State Senate Bid: The article correctly notes Mohajer’s unsuccessful bid for the California State Senate in 2024. Ballotpedia confirms he did not advance past the primary.
* Breaking News Check (Iran Situation): As of January 14, 2026, the political situation in Iran remains highly volatile. The protests referenced in the article have continued, albeit with varying intensity, and the regime continues to suppress dissent. There have been no major shifts in power or meaningful changes in the geopolitical landscape. The U.S. State department’s Iran page provides the latest official updates. Sanctions remain in place, and diplomatic efforts to address the nuclear program are ongoing but stalled.
PHASE 2: ENTITY-BASED GEO
Los Angeles City Council District 5 Election
Table of Contents
The article focuses on candidates vying for representation in los Angeles City Council District 5. This district encompasses communities in the West San fernando Valley, including Granada Hills, Northridge, and portions of Chatsworth and Porter Ranch.The election is crucial for determining the future direction of these neighborhoods.
sam Yebri
Sam Yebri is a candidate for the Los Angeles City Council District 5 seat.he is a lawyer and community activist. His campaign website details his platform, which includes addressing homelessness, improving public safety, and investing in local infrastructure. His strong stance on Iran, as detailed in the article, is a significant aspect of his public profile.
Alex Mohajer
Alex Mohajer, the Vice President of the Iranian American Democrats of California, is also a candidate for the los Angeles City Council District 5 seat. he previously ran for the California State Senate in 2024. Mohajer’s background and advocacy for the Iranian-American community are central to his campaign. His campaign website outlines his policy positions on local issues.
Iran and the Iranian Diaspora
The article highlights the importance of the situation in