Iranians are grappling with severe economic repercussions following 12 harrowing days of conflict with Israel, a clash that has left the nation reeling even in the absence of direct strikes on its commercial heart. The Grand Bazaar in Tehran, a bustling hub of trade, stands as a stark testament to the chaos that has unfolded. Merchants, once vibrant with commerce, now face crippling debts and empty tills, the echoes of war reverberating through every stall.

Despite the cessation of missile fire, the psychological and economic toll on families and businesses is profound. “This attack felt like a deep injustice,” lamented one merchant, reflecting the pervasive sentiment among traders who were forced to shutter their doors, exacerbating a crisis already fueled by decades of sanctions. The fear and uncertainty have stifled consumer confidence, leaving shops eerily quiet and sales plummeting.

Veteran cafe owner Hashem, who has served customers in the Grand Bazaar for 50 years, noted that the market’s pulse has slowed to a crawl. “People are cautious and hesitant to buy,” he said, capturing the anxiety that hangs thick in the air. With rents soaring and no sales to speak of, the financial harm is undeniable, and many are left wondering how they will meet their obligations.

Online businesses, too, have felt the sting of conflict, with many sellers forced to halt operations out of solidarity with those affected and due to widespread internet disruptions. For many, this conflict will not be marked by destruction but by shattered storefronts and lost opportunities, underscoring a grim reality that extends far beyond the battlefield.

As the dust settles, the looming specter of renewed conflict leaves Iranians in a state of trepidation, caught in a cycle of economic strain and psychological distress. The Grand Bazaar may not have been physically attacked, but the scars of war run deep, with its merchants now facing an uncertain future.