As the conflict between the U.S. and Israel and Iran enters its fifth week, approximately 93 million civilians in Iran find themselves in a precarious situation. Lacking both missile alert systems and reliable internet access, these individuals are cut off from crucial information during the ongoing hostilities. Additionally, around 4 million people of Iranian origin living abroad are similarly disconnected from their families and friends still in Iran.
In response to this lack of communication and safety, a group known as Holistic Resilience has developed an app called Mahsa Alert. The app is named after Mahsa Amini, a young woman whose death in police custody in 2022 sparked widespread protests against the Iranian government. This initiative aims to provide real-time alerts and essential location information for civilians who may need to evacuate due to military strikes.
Ahmad Ahmadian, the executive director of Holistic Resilience, notes that the organization utilizes crowdsourced information and open-source intelligence to verify tips about potential missile strikes. Volunteers analyze around 100 reports daily, employing data from social media and surveillance footage. The app also offers critical resources like hospitals and shelters for displaced individuals.
Despite the efforts of Holistic Resilience, the Iranian government has been accused of prioritizing military objectives over civilian safety. Official communications have reportedly included threats against those sharing information. Additionally, the Iranian government has launched cyberattacks against the app and its volunteers, attempting to discredit their work.
As the conflict continues, the challenges faced by both civilians in Iran and those attempting to communicate with them remain significant, underscoring the complexities of the ongoing war.