An Iranian fisherwoman describes life disrupted by regional conflict

How has the war changed daily routines on Hengam Island?

Khadijeh Bandari, a 28-year-old fisherwoman from Hengam Island in southern Iran, shares how her daily routine of fishing with her mother has been shattered by the ongoing war involving the United States and Israel. Living on a small island in the Persian Gulf, she once enjoyed a peaceful life tied to the sea, but now faces uncertainty as military tensions escalate around her home. Her testimony, shared with Al Jazeera, reveals how geopolitical conflict has invaded the simplest aspects of island life.

The war has not only brought fear but also practical disruptions to fishing, the island’s main livelihood. Bandari explains that naval patrols, restricted zones, and the constant presence of military vessels have made it dangerous and sometimes impossible to go out to sea. She recalls how she and her mother used to leave at dawn, returning with catches that fed their family and supported the local market. Now, even when they manage to fish, selling the catch has become harder due to disrupted trade and declining demand from fearful consumers.

What keeps her going despite the dangers?

Bandari says the sound of drones and distant explosions has replaced the natural rhythm of waves and seabirds. Children no longer play freely on the beach, and families stay indoors during curfew-like hours imposed amid security alerts. The island’s close-knit community, once reliant on shared knowledge of tides and seasons, now struggles to plan anything beyond the immediate day. She notes that younger fishermen are leaving for cities, fearing they cannot sustain a livelihood amid the instability.

Despite the risks, Bandari continues to fish when she can, driven by duty to her family and a deep connection to the sea. She speaks of her mother’s teachings — how to read the wind, where the fish gather, and how to respect the ocean — as anchors in turbulent times. „We are not fighters,” she says, „but we are not helpless either. We endure.” Her resilience reflects that of many on Hengam Island, who adapt not by choice but by necessity, holding onto traditions even as the world around them shifts.

Why has fishing become more dangerous on Hengam Island? Fishing has become dangerous due to increased naval activity, restricted maritime zones, and the risk of confrontation with military forces operating in the Persian Gulf during the ongoing conflict.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are people leaving Hengam Island because of the war? Yes, some younger residents, particularly fishermen, are moving to cities in search of safer and more stable livelihoods, though many older residents remain due to family ties and deep-rooted connections to the land and sea.

How does the community cope with the uncertainty? The community copes by relying on close family networks, traditional knowledge, and shared resources, continuing daily practices like fishing when possible to maintain a sense of normalcy and self-reliance.