Iran Attacks: How LA’s “Tehrangeles” Stays Connected Amidst Conflict & Censorship

The bombardment of Iran by the U.S. And Israel has prompted a surge in information-seeking among Iranian Angelenos, who are turning to a mix of encrypted messaging apps, social media, and, surprisingly, Fox News to connect with loved ones and stay abreast of developments. The epicenter of this activity is “Tehrangeles,” the Westwood neighborhood in Los Angeles that serves as a hub for the sprawling Iranian diaspora.

Many within the community are experiencing a complex blend of anxiety and elation following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a pivotal figure in Iranian politics for over three decades. Communication with family and friends in Iran, though, is proving challenging due to the government’s strict control over internet access. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, many are relying on apps like Telegram and WhatsApp to receive updates, whereas a significant number are tuning into Fox News for the latest information.

Navigating Iran’s Digital Firewall

Iran operates one of the most restrictive internet censorship systems in the world. Internet traffic is heavily monitored and filtered, with thousands of websites – including social media platforms, international news sources, and messaging apps – blocked by the state. Despite these restrictions, Iranians are finding ways to circumvent the controls. The use of “filter shekan” – a term for virtual private networks (VPNs) and other circumvention tools – is widespread. Some are utilizing Android apps that allow users outside the country to act as relays, enabling those inside Iran to bypass government filtering. Even traditional landlines, though potentially monitored, are being used as a fallback when internet access is disrupted.

Access to these tools isn’t universal, however. Charlene Laurent, an Iranian social media influencer in Los Angeles, noted that many filter-breaking tools come with a cost, creating a barrier for some. Speaking from a gathering outside the Israeli Consulate on Wilshire Boulevard, Laurent expressed gratitude to President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for their military action. She highlighted the risks faced by those speaking out against the regime, recounting how a cousin’s home in Tehran was recently raided after the man was accused of being an American spy for simply having a phone.

“People advise me that I’m so brave for speaking against this, since I gain a lot of death threats, but it’s nothing compared to what they’re doing in Iran,” Laurent said.

The Hunger for Information and the Appeal of Fox News

Mehrzad Boroujerdi, an Iran scholar and co-founder of the Iran Data Portal at Syracuse University, explained that the need for communication is driving people to seize risks. “There is always that fear, but the need for communication is so great that people are utilizing these apps to make contact with one another,” he said in a phone call. He also noted the government’s attempts to shut down the internet to prevent mobilization and the dissemination of unfavorable video footage to expatriate TV stations.

The choice of Fox News as a primary source of information for many in the diaspora is particularly noteworthy. Laurent explained that she and many others don’t trust CNN, deeming it “fake news.” She believes the footage on CNN doesn’t align with the videos she’s receiving directly from people in Iran. This sentiment was echoed by Shahram Elyaszadeh, a 66-year-aged Iranian who has lived in the U.S. Since 1979, who described himself as “hooked to Fox 24/7.” Ryan Ghasemi, a recent transplant from Canada, similarly stated, “Fox is the most trustworthy.” He added that in Iran, the BBC is often referred to as the “Ayatollah BBC” due to perceptions of its pro-government bias.

Boroujerdi attributes this preference to the political leanings of many in the Iranian expatriate community, particularly in Los Angeles. “A sizeable percentage…consider themselves as monarchists—they are opposed to the Islamic Republic, favor the son of the exiled shah [Reza Pahlavi], and therefore they consider CNN, BBC…as TV stations that are not necessarily sympathetic to their cause,” he explained. Iran International, a London-based news channel broadcast via satellite and online, is also a popular source for this group.

A Patchwork of Communication and a Search for Reassurance

The methods of communication are often circuitous. David Taheri, 53, has been unable to reach his family in Tehran and Ahvaz directly for several days, relying instead on a friend who has asked her family to contact his and confirm their safety – a modern-day game of telephone. Most updates come through WhatsApp, but Telegram is also used due to its encrypted messages that can be easily deleted, a precaution taken to avoid government scrutiny.

The situation is emotionally fraught. Mohammad Ghafarian, owner of Shater Abbass Bakery & Market on Westwood Boulevard, expressed both happiness at the overthrow of the Ayatollah and worry for his family in Tehran and Mashhad, with whom he hasn’t been able to connect. He hopes the U.S. Will avoid harming civilians and that the conflict will complete quickly. He’s been diligently following news on Instagram, CNN, CNBC, and Fox News to stay informed.

What Comes Next: A Wait for Connection and Clarity

For the Iranian diaspora in Los Angeles, the immediate future hinges on restoring reliable communication with loved ones in Iran. The desire for direct contact, coupled with a deep-seated distrust of state-controlled media within Iran, is driving the reliance on a diverse range of information sources – from encrypted messaging apps to conservative-leaning cable news. The situation remains fluid, and the ability to connect with family and friends will likely remain a primary concern as the situation in Iran continues to unfold. The community is, for now, navigating a complex landscape of digital circumvention, political alignment, and a desperate need for reassurance.