Early Saturday in Tehran, my father called me with his warm, steady voice to tell me that the attack had begun. As he always does, controlling his emotions carefully, he spoke calmly: “The war has started. They hit several places. But don’t worry — I’m fine.”

Those words, spoken with such strength and resilience, have stayed with me since that fateful call. They are a testament to the unwavering spirit of the people of Iran, who have faced numerous challenges and hardships throughout history, yet have always emerged stronger and more determined.

The attack that my father spoke of was the Iran-Iraq War, one of the longest and bloodiest conflicts of the 20th century. It lasted for eight years, from 1980 to 1988, and claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people on both sides. It was a devastating time for our country, but it also brought out the best in us.

As a child, I remember the fear and uncertainty that gripped our nation during those years. The constant sound of air raid sirens, the sight of fighter jets flying overhead, and the news of bombings and casualties were a daily reality. But amidst all the chaos and destruction, there was also a sense of unity and resilience among the people.

Families like ours were separated, with my father stationed at the front lines while my mother, siblings, and I stayed in Tehran. But despite the distance, my father always made sure to call us and reassure us of his safety. His voice, filled with courage and determination, gave us the strength to carry on.

I remember the countless times we gathered in our basement, huddled together as a family, praying for the safety of our loved ones and our country. We also joined millions of other Iranians in rallies and demonstrations, showing our support for our brave soldiers and our unwavering commitment to defending our homeland.

But it wasn’t just the physical battles that we had to endure. The war also took a toll on our economy, our infrastructure, and our way of life. Basic necessities like food, water, and electricity became scarce, and we had to learn to adapt and make do with what we had. Yet, through it all, the people of Iran remained resilient and resourceful, finding ways to survive and thrive in the face of adversity.

Looking back now, I realize that the war had a profound impact on shaping my character and my perspective on life. It taught me the value of strength, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity. It also instilled in me a deep sense of patriotism and pride for my country and its people.

Today, as I reflect on that early Saturday in Tehran, I am reminded of the sacrifices made by my father and countless others who fought for our country. I am also filled with gratitude for the lessons I learned and the resilience I gained during those difficult years.

The attack that my father spoke of may have been a dark moment in our history, but it was also a defining moment that brought out the best in us. It showed the world the unwavering spirit of the Iranian people and their ability to overcome any challenge that comes their way.

As I end this article, I want to leave you with a message of hope and inspiration. No matter what challenges we face, whether it be war, natural disasters, or personal struggles, let us remember the strength and resilience of the people of Iran and draw upon it to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Let us also never forget the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers and their families, who continue to defend our country with unwavering courage and determination.