Total Paralysis and No Way Out: Iran's Qeshm Island Collapses in War

Iran's Qeshm Island, a leading tourist destination, has collapsed in the war: businesses closed, fishing ceased, and residents live in fear and uncertainty. The war, now in its sixth month, has severely damaged the local economy, with activists describing total paralysis. Residents fear going to sea, and hotels and restaurants stand empty. The Iranian government is accused of cruelty, and peace seems far off.

Iran's Qeshm Island, the country's top resort destination, has collapsed in the war that has lasted six months. Before the war, the island attracted millions of visitors annually, thanks to its beaches and cliffs, and was a rare economic success story. With the bombings, cafes and restaurants closed, and hotels stand empty. The tourism industry, which provided employment for about 40% of the island's 150,000 residents, has collapsed. The fishing industry has also come to a near standstill, with fishermen afraid to go to sea. Residents describe a constant sense of uncertainty and fear of attacks. Some sell personal belongings to survive. The Iranian government is accused of cruelty, and residents feel they have no way out. The war has also damaged civilian infrastructure, such as desalination plants and factories, and the area is cut off from supplies.