IRAN REGIME NEXT TO FALL?
Since the 1979 Revolution, the Islamic Republic has been ruled by the ruling elite, known as the Supreme Leader and the High Council of the Revolution Guardians. The regime has historically been characterized by its brutality, corruption, and stifling of dissent. Protests and uprisings have been brutally suppressed in the past, but is the regime on the edge of collapse?
The root of the problem lies with the regime’s economic malaise. The country suffers from high inflation, staggering unemployment, and a crisis in the energy sector due to US sanctions. Amidst this economic chaos, the regime’s popularity ratings have plummeted, allowing opposition groups to gain further traction.
The most worrying sign for the regime are the protests that have repeatedly swept the country. Anti-government demonstrations have become daily occurrences, with chants echoing through the streets of big cities like Tehran, Shahr-e Rey, and Mashhad demanding regime change. The widespread discontent has been fueled in part by the regime’s brutal suppression of protests from 2019, causing many to lose faith and seek a new path towards change.
The regime fears the growing influence of Western-backed opposition groups, along with the increasing support provided by the United States after the 2020-2021 election. American sanctions have crippled the IRGC’s (Islamic Revolution Guard Corps) economic ties, leaving the regime beholden to China and Iraq for financial support.
Even more ominous for the current regime is the rise in popularity of the MEK (Mujahidin-e-Khalq), a militant opposition force that has been designated an FTO (Foreign Terrorist Organization) by Western governments. The MEK has been actively seeking increased international recognition and support under the leadership of Maryam Rajavi, who commands a significant following among supporters of the opposition.
Lastly, the regime’s recent attempts to consolidate power to ensure its survival have drawn international condemnation. The flogging of a 17-year-old girl for removing her hijab, as seen in a video, evoked widespread outrage and rekindled the flames against the regime.
The combined forces of economic despair, widespread protests, and escalating international pressure have created perfect storm conditions for the once-impregnable pillars of the Islamic Republic of Iran to crumble at last.
