The Mortazavi family established Lavender Pastry in Westboro slightly over a year ago, following their departure from Iran due to oppressive conditions and economic challenges. Upon hearing news of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in Iran, Shirin Mortazavi expressed cautious optimism, believing it could lead to liberation for her homeland. Ottawa’s Iranian community members hold mixed views on the airstrikes, with some welcoming them as a potential turning point while others fear escalation of civilian suffering.
Iran has experienced a period of unrest for about two months, marked by widespread protests against the government and economic struggles. Mortazavi emphasized the desire of Iranians to uproot the current regime and viewed the airstrikes as a possible end to this chapter in history. However, some community members stress that lasting political change must originate from within Iran itself.
Shahram Golestaneh, director of the Iran Democratic Association in Canada, highlighted the necessity for Iranians to drive long-term political transformations. While acknowledging the people’s yearning for change, he expressed concerns about the motives behind the military actions and the potential for civilian casualties. Golestaneh underscored that external military intervention cannot dictate Iran’s future, emphasizing that true change must arise internally.
Conversely, Mehdi Fallahi, host of Ottawa Persian Radio, opposed the military intervention, viewing war as an inadequate solution that would result in innocent lives lost and infrastructure damage. He lamented the impact on regular Iranians and the uncertainty surrounding communication disruptions within the country. U.S. President Donald Trump’s characterization of the airstrikes as a comprehensive operation to dismantle Iran’s military and government has sparked varied reactions within the community.
Political figures like Prime Minister Mark Carney have expressed support for the U.S. actions to address Iran’s nuclear program, urging Canadians in Iran to seek shelter. Ottawa Police Service issued a statement indicating their vigilance over the evolving situation in Iran and advised residents to expect heightened police presence near religious sites.
The reactions within Ottawa’s Iranian diaspora to the recent airstrikes on Iran reveal a diversity of opinions and concerns within the community.