The Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA) is deeply concerned by recent statements suggesting the potential mass targeting of Iran’s civilian infrastructure, including power-generating facilities and bridges. We are also very alarmed by reports of attacks that have already impacted critical civilian institutions, including healthcare facilities such as the Pasteur Institute—long central to the prevention of communicable diseases—and universities such as Sharif University—a leading center of protest against the Islamic Republic and an incubator for Silicon Valley. For decades, the people of Iran have endured repression, economic hardship, and the denial of basic freedoms under the Islamic Republic. At this moment of intense tension, the safety and well-being of the Iranian people must remain the central priority.
While civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure are tragic realities that can occur in times of conflict, the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure raises far more serious humanitarian and legal concerns. Such actions risk creating a severe and lasting humanitarian crisis for millions of ordinary Iranians by disrupting access to essential services, including electricity, healthcare, and clean water. They also raise significant concerns under international humanitarian law.
These measures disproportionately harm the very people who have repeatedly demonstrated their desire for freedom and accountability. Widespread protests in Iran and public opinion data among Iranian Americans reflect deep opposition to the current regime and strong support for democratic governance. Actions that deepen civilian suffering would further silence those voices and make future recovery more difficult while reinforcing the regime’s propaganda.
Calls to support the Iranian people in shaping their own future must be matched by policies that do not intentionally inflict harm upon them. Actions that impose widespread hardship on civilians risk alienating the very population whose aspirations for freedom, human rights, and accountable governance are being invoked – and could erode any goodwill among Iranian Americans as well.
Despite decades of repression, the people of Iran have demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience. PAAIA stands with them and reiterates that any policy toward Iran must prioritize the protection of civilian life and uphold the universal values of human rights and liberty. All parties to the conflict must adhere to international law, avoid targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, and respect the fundamental rights of the people affected.
