Charlotte Iranian Immigrant Hopeful for Freedom After US-Israel Strikes in Tehran

North Carolina resident Shahram Mazhari says recent attacks bring long-awaited chance for change in Iran

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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Shahram Mazhari, an Iranian immigrant living in Charlotte, North Carolina, expressed hope that the recent US and Israeli strikes in Tehran could lead to the downfall of Iran's government, which he has criticized as one of the "most vicious regimes" in history. Mazhari, who moved to the US as a teenager, said Iranians have been waiting 47 years for a chance at freedom since the 1979 Islamic revolution.

Why it matters

The strikes in Tehran have reignited the long-running tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel. For Iranians living in the US like Mazhari, the attacks represent a potential turning point in the fight for freedom and democracy in their home country after decades of authoritarian rule.

The details

Mazhari told WRAL News that the strikes were a "moment that we've been waiting for for 47 years." He said his aspirations to return to Iran were destroyed after the 1979 Islamic revolution, which he called "one of the most vicious regimes that the history of mankind has ever seen." In January, local Iranians in Raleigh gathered to speak out against the ongoing protests and killings in Iran and to request US intervention.

  • The US and Israel carried out strikes in Tehran on February 25, 2026.
  • In January 2026, local Iranians in Raleigh protested the regime in Iran and called for US help.

The players

Shahram Mazhari

An Iranian immigrant living in Charlotte, North Carolina who is hopeful the recent strikes in Tehran could lead to the downfall of Iran's government.

Donald Trump

The former US president who encouraged Iranians to "take over your government" in a video posted to Truth Social following the strikes.

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What they’re saying

“This is a moment that we've been waiting for for 47 years.”

— Shahram Mazhari, Iranian immigrant (WRAL News)

“When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take.”

— Donald Trump (Truth Social)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.