Published Date : 29/06/2025
AMMAN, Jordan — Roxana, a 31-year-old shop manager living alone in Tehran, was in a state of panic during the war with Israel. Her family lived outside the Iranian capital, her boyfriend was on an Iranian military base for compulsory service, and her therapist had fled the city. With no one to turn to, she reached out to ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence app.
The war, which began on June 13 with Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, lasted for 12 days. Iran retaliated by firing ballistic missiles on Israel. The conflict ended on June 25 when the U.S. bombed Iranian sites, leading to an Iranian attack on a U.S. air base in Qatar.
It was the third or fourth day of the war when Roxana, who did not want her full name used due to fear of arrest by Iranian security services, tried the AI app. Explosions were getting closer, and she was desperate for answers. She asked ChatGPT if it could predict when the war would end.
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Q: What is ChatGPT?
A: ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence chatbot developed by OpenAI. It is designed to engage in natural language conversations and provide information and assistance to users.
Q: How did Roxana use ChatGPT during the conflict?
A: Roxana used ChatGPT to seek information and predictions about the end of the conflict. She found the app's responses to be informative and helpful in coping with the uncertainty and fear.
Q: Why were video games important to Roxana and other Iranians?
A: Video games provided a temporary escape from the stress and fear of the conflict. They helped individuals like Roxana distract themselves and maintain a sense of normalcy during a challenging time.
Q: What role did technology play in helping Iranians during the conflict?
A: Technology, including AI apps like ChatGPT and video games, played a crucial role in providing information, distraction, and a sense of connection for many Iranians who were isolated and anxious during the conflict.
Q: How did the conflict affect the mental health of Iranians?
A: The conflict had a significant impact on the mental health of many Iranians, especially those who were isolated and unable to reach their loved ones. The constant fear and uncertainty took a toll on their well-being.