Iranians in LA on US Role: Feelings & Views
Iran Strikes: Westwood’s Persian Community reacts to Escalating tensions
Updated June 23,2025
The recent strikes involving Iran have sparked a range of emotions within Westwood’s large Persian community.Residents are grappling with concerns for loved ones, fears of wider conflict and differing opinions about the future of Iran.
Roozbeh Farahanipour, owner of Delphi Greek restaurant, expressed his worry about the situation in his homeland. While harboring “anger and hate” for the Iranian regime, Farahanipour, who fled Iran 25 years ago, fears the strikes coudl lead to instability. He wonders about the safety of civilians and the potential for widespread war.
People dine at Atari Sandwich Shop in Westwood.
(jason Armond / los Angeles Times)
Another resident, Mary, who withheld her last name for her family’s safety in Iran, said the past week has been arduous. Her parents recently left Tehran due to the attacks. “I am talking to them every day,” the Chicago resident said.
Standing near shater Abbass Bakery & Market, Mary described feeling “hopeful and worried.” She explained that some Iranians are happy because they oppose the government, while others are upset by the destruction and civilian deaths. Her planned August visit to Iran is now uncertain.
In nearby Beverly Hills, Shahram Javidnia, an Iranian Jew, joined pro-Israel supporters. Javidnia,who opposes the Iranian government,said he closely follows the news. He hopes Iranians will “rise up and try to do what is right” during this period of perceived weakness in Iran’s leadership.
Javidnia came to the U.S. in 1978, before the iranian Revolution.He has not returned since, stating that his childhood home “doesn’t exist” anymore.
What’s next
as tensions remain high, the Persian community in Westwood and beyond continues to monitor the situation closely, balancing hope and fear for the future of Iran and its people.