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Photographer Captures Cultural Essence of Iranian Islands Amid Crisis

KVIA•Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 2:41 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

Hoda Afshar, a photographer, has been documenting the islands of Ormuz and Qeshm in Iran since 2015, focusing on the local beliefs surrounding the winds that are seen as powerful entities. Her work, featured in her 2021 book 'Speak with the Wind', illustrates the tension between visible landscapes and invisible forces. Currently, these islands face a new crisis due to military tensions and resource scarcity exacerbated by the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Israel against Iran. Afshar's family remains in Qeshm, where they experience the impacts of warfare, including attacks on vital infrastructure like desalination plants. Her photographs serve as poignant reminders of the region's rich history and the lasting effects of violence on cultural memory.

Key Details: • Afshar's book 'Speak with the Wind' explores the connection between landscape and cultural identity. • The islands are currently threatened by military actions and resource shortages due to ongoing conflicts. • Local beliefs about winds play a significant role in the cultural fabric of the island communities.

photography culture conflict history iran

People & Organizations

OrmuzQeshmHoda Afshar

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