Among LA's Iranian community: anxiety, chaos after Trump order

A man sits outside a cafe beneath where a sign which reads "Persian Square" overlooks a section Westwood Blvd. in Los Angeles, California, on March 15, 2012. A new reality TV show about the lavish lifestyles of rich young American-Iranians in Los Angeles has sparked angry claims it is degrading, and exploits the Persian community's image for ratings. The show is set in Tehrangeles, the name given to the West Coast metropolis's Persian community, where 20 percent of Beverly Hills' residents are of Iranian stock, said to be the biggest outside the Islamic Republic. AFP PHOTO/Frederic J. BROWN (Photo credit should read FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP/Getty Images)

As President Trump's executive order limiting refugees and banning travel from certain countries abroad prompted confusion at airports and rallies in multiple cities, L.A.'s sizeable Iranian community voiced anxiety over the rapid developments.

As President Trump's executive order limiting refugees and banning travel from certain countries abroad prompted confusion at airports and rallies in multiple cities, L.A.'s sizeable Iranian community voiced anxiety over the rapid developments.

"They're worried about their families," said Siamak Kalhour, a host on KIRN 670 am, Radio Iran LA. "They're worried about their connections, businesses, going back [to Iran] and coming."

Kalhour said during his live show Sunday, he received call after call of listeners expressing concern about the new travel restrictions.

"But I think the biggest fear in the Iranian community is the future," said Kalhour. "They see these [changes to immigration policy] as a signal of retaliation."

A Martínez spoke with Siamak Kalhour. To hear the full conversation, click the blue player above.