The Decibel

Voices from the Iranian diaspora in Canada

12 snips
Mar 11, 2026
Donia Ziai, Montreal-based Iranian-Canadian critic of Canada’s support for the war. Mehdi Falahi, Ottawa resident wrestling with anxiety and hopes for democracy. Samira Moyadin, journalist and émigré skeptical of foreign-led regime change. Niku Mansurifar, Halifax musician and mother coping with family fear. They discuss civilian toll, mixed emotions over leadership deaths, diaspora divisions, and debates about intervention vs. democracy.
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INSIGHT

Precision Strikes Still Harm Civilians

  • Donia Ziai notes precision strikes still cause civilian harm in dense cities like Tehran, making 'targeted' attacks unavoidable for civilians.
  • Her uncle's family had to flee after windows shattered, illustrating collateral impact.
ANECDOTE

Mixed Emotions After Khamenei's Death

  • Samira (Samir Moyadin) felt initial joy at Khamenei's death but quickly feared consequences, recalling similar aftermath after Khomeini's death.
  • He warned making a martyr can strengthen a regime and described family members' fear in Iran.
ANECDOTE

Journalist's Fear And Sleeplessness

  • Samira described sleeplessness and crippling distress watching destruction in Iran, getting about four hours of sleep a night.
  • She questioned the endgame, calling current events chaotic and wondering the objective of the strikes.
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