Iranians are protesting for their rights and against ongoing economic hardships. Govt has intensified its crackdown including internet shutdowns. Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu are closely monitoring the situation.
Why are Iranians protesting, and how are they doing it?
People are protesting because of a crushing economic crisis and the collapse of the Iranian currency. They are also angry about corruption, poverty, and a lack of freedom. Many are now calling for the end of the Islamic Republic.
To protest, thousands of people of all ages are filling the streets. They chant slogans like “Death to the dictator” and “Long live the shah”. Some protesters have blocked streets with metal sheets and poles to protect themselves, while others have set fire to state buildings.
What is the economic situation in Iran under the current leadership?
The economy is in deep trouble and “crippled”. Because of international sanctions, Iran cannot easily sell its oil or use global banks. This has caused food prices to rise by more than 70%, making it very hard for normal people to buy what they need. The value of the Iranian money has also dropped significantly, which is what started the newest protests.
How is the Iranian government handling the protests?
The government is using violent force to stop the protests. Security forces are using tear gas, birdshot, and live ammunition against crowds. This has caused thousands of deaths and many severe injuries, especially to people’s eyes.
The state is also arresting thousands of people, including wounded protesters who try to get help at hospitals. To hide what is happening, the government has shut down the internet and phone networks across the country.
Why do Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu care so much?
President Trump wants to stop Iran from getting nuclear weapons and building ballistic missiles. He also wants Iran to stop supporting armed groups in other countries. He has threatened to bomb Iran and has placed heavy taxes (tariffs) on countries that trade with them.
Israel’s leadership sees Iran’s nuclear program as a threat to their country’s existence. They have already attacked Iranian nuclear sites and are worried about Iran’s military power in the region.
How did the world react when Iran shut down the internet?
The internet blackout made it very difficult for the world to see the full scale of the violence. However, some people used Starlink satellite internet to send out photos and videos.
International news groups, like the BBC have worked to verify leaked photos of the dead to show the world what is happening. Human rights groups and the United Nations are also speaking out and trying to count the number of people killed.
How do eyewitnesses describe the protests?
Eyewitnesses say the streets look like “war zones”. They describe seeing people getting shot and falling down, with blood covering the ground. One witness described “total chaos” at clinics where doctors had to treat hundreds of people for eye injuries. People feel a mix of fear and hope, often hiding in alleyways to avoid being shot by security forces.
What do the people of Iran think about the United States?
Opinions are divided. Some Iranians see US military action as “help” because they feel the current regime cannot be changed peacefully. Others are very worried that a US attack would bring more destruction and chaos to their families. Many believe that real change must come from the Iranian people standing together, rather than from an outside force.
Why do some experts believe the current Iranian government will survive this time?
Some experts believe the Iranian government might survive these protests for several reasons. The leaders are willing to use extreme violence and “unlimited force” to stay in power. There is also a very large security force that wants to keep the current system exactly as it is. So far, no important members of the military or the government have switched sides to join the protesters. This regime has been in power for 47 years and is very good at resisting change. Finally, some analysts warn that even US air strikes might not be enough to actually topple the leadership.
Iran has seen numerous protests over the decades, ranging from the 1979 Revolution that overthrew the Pahlavi monarchy to recent uprisings triggered by social restrictions and economic collapse. Historically, Iran’s vast oil reserves have acted as both a blessing and a “Jealous Mistress”.
This drew significant interference from global powers like the US and the UK. During the Pahlavi era, Iran even maintained a positive relationship with Israel. This was a stark contrast to the current geopolitical landscape.
A shift in Iranian politics today would fundamentally alter the Middle East’s balance of power, potentially giving Israel a significant strategic advantage. But for the Iranian people, the immediate reality is a brutal crackdown on freedom of speech and a free falling economy. As security forces use live ammunition against crowds and the internet remains dark, many wonder what comes next.
A major question looms: Could the Pahlavi dynasty return? In recent protests, many have been heard chanting “Long live the shah” in support of the exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi.
– Opinion | Daily ScrollDown
Source: Al Jazeera & BBC