Will these Iran protests bring the government down? - Post Reports Recap

Podcast: Post Reports

Published: 2026-01-12

Duration: 32 minutes

Guests: Yeganeh Torbati

Summary

The episode examines the scale and significance of recent protests in Iran, sparked by economic collapse and widespread discontent with the regime. It questions whether these protests could lead to the fall of the Islamic Republic.

What Happened

The initial protests in Iran began in late December when Tehran merchants closed their shops in response to the currency's collapse. This economic discontent rapidly transformed into widespread demonstrations demanding the end of the Islamic Republic. The government has responded with severe violence, and human rights groups report hundreds of deaths under a communications blackout.

Yeganeh Torbati, the Washington Post's Iran correspondent, provides insights into the situation, highlighting the unprecedented scale of the protests, which include diverse segments of Iranian society. Despite the government's history of violent crackdowns on protests, the current situation is marked by a profound dissatisfaction among Iranians.

The protests are fueled by both economic hardship and a longstanding desire for political change. Many Iranians are frustrated by international isolation due to the government's policies, particularly its nuclear ambitions and support for militant groups, which have led to severe sanctions.

The episode discusses the structure of Iran's government, where theocratic elements dominate despite the presence of electoral processes. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei holds ultimate power, with the military and clerical establishments backing the regime.

The podcast also explores the historical context of Iranian protests, referencing past movements like the 2009 Green Movement and the 2022 women-led protests. These historical examples demonstrate the government's typical response of violence and repression.

The potential for U.S. involvement is considered, with President Donald Trump weighing military options. The Iranian government accuses foreign actors of instigating unrest, using this narrative to justify its actions and rally support internally.

The episode concludes with speculation about the future, considering whether these protests could lead to significant political change or even the fall of the current government. While experts see a revolutionary moment as possible, the outcome remains uncertain due to the complex political landscape and international pressures.

Key Insights