Iran protests: brutal crackdown as uprising gathers pace – The Latest

Protests have erupted across Iran, initially sparked by economic issues related to a significant fall in the value of the Iranian currency. Over the past two weeks, what began as demonstrations among merchants has expanded into widespread calls for political reform and regime change. Social media plays a crucial role as brave protesters share videos of their actions, often risking retaliation from authorities, who have responded with violent crackdowns, including internet blackouts that typically precede state violence.

The Iranian regime's rhetoric has intensified, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei attributing the protests to foreign influence, specifically the United States, which provides the regime a pretext to justify further crackdowns. This escalating situation has prompted discussion about the regime's stability following a perceived weakening due to regional conflicts.

While previous protests may have been suppressed effectively in the past, analysts suggest this time may be different, given the regime's relative weakness and the potential for significant political change. Key figures like Reza Pahlavi, the son of the former Shah, have called for protests, though his level of support remains uncertain. The next few days are critical, with the potential for either an intensified crackdown or a more sustained protest movement forming against the backdrop of increasing international attention.