In recent footage released by the Iranian regime, crowds in Tehran and Kermanshah celebrated missile strikes launched against Israel, marking an end to a brief period of calm. The strikes were described as retaliation for Israeli actions in Lebanon, particularly after Hezbollah's violation of a ceasefire. Celebrants waved both the Iranian and Hezbollah flags while chanting slogans of support for the regime. However, these celebrations occur against the backdrop of a severe economic crisis in Iran, with inflation soaring to 77.2% and significant shortages of basic goods reported. Arman Khaleghi, head of Iran's Chamber of Commerce, pointed to the detrimental effects of the US naval blockade and the ongoing conflict, which have compounded existing economic woes. He noted that while there is no real shortage of goods, the panic buying triggered by the war has driven prices up significantly, with a 32% drop in merchandise imports reported during the last fiscal year. The situation highlights the duality of national pride in military capabilities and the harsh realities of economic hardship faced by ordinary Iranians.