Iranian Uprising Looks Promising. Ignored by MSM

Leave a CommentIranian Uprising Looks Promising. Ignored by MSMCommentary, National Security

Since late December 2025, Iran has been gripped by one of the most serious uprisings the Islamic Republic has faced in years. What began as economic protest has rapidly evolved into a nationwide challenge to clerical rule. A collapsing currency, runaway inflation, fuel shortages and the soaring cost of basic goods pushed merchants in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar to shut their shops in protest. As has happened at key moments in Iranian history, the bazaar closures became a catalyst for something far larger.

Within days, demonstrations spread far beyond Tehran, reaching cities and towns across multiple provinces. Students, workers, pensioners and shopkeepers have taken to the streets, often chanting openly political slogans calling for freedom and the end of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s rule. The protests are no longer limited to economic grievances; they reflect deep, long-standing anger at corruption, repression, and the absence of any peaceful path to reform.

Over the past hours, reports indicate continued street demonstrations despite an escalating security crackdown. The regime has deployed Revolutionary Guard units, Basij militias and plainclothes security forces, using tear gas, beatings and live ammunition in some areas. Dozens of protesters are believed to have been killed since the unrest began, with children among the victims, and thousands more arrested. Hospitals have reportedly been pressured not to treat wounded demonstrators, underscoring the regime’s fear of the movement spreading further.

Rather than addressing the public’s demands, Iran’s leadership has reverted to familiar tactics: blaming foreign enemies, threatening harsh punishment, and carrying out executions to intimidate the population. These measures have not restored calm. Instead, they appear to be hardening public resolve, particularly among younger Iranians who see no future under the current system.

As of the last hour, protests continue despite the risks. The uprising has become a defining moment, revealing a society increasingly willing to confront repression and demand fundamental change, not concessions at the margins.

Iran has reached this critical 10-day milestone, evolving from localized economic grievances into a nationwide movement demanding the total dismantling of the clerical regime.

Cause & Effect

The “Dey Uprising” (named for the Persian month) was ignited by a currency collapse—with the rial hitting 1.4 million per dollar—and 52% inflation. What began in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar has now engulfed over 130 cities across 28 provinces. Within the last few hours:

  • Expansion of Strikes: Kurdish opposition parties and labor groups have called for a massive general strike to begin tomorrow, January 8.
  • Tehran’s Resilience: Despite a heavy security presence, bazaar merchants in the capital shuttered their shops today in a show of solidarity.
  • Casualties & Repression: Rights groups report at least 36 confirmed deaths, including four minors. Over 2,000 protesters have been detained. Reports indicate security forces have begun raiding hospitals, such as Sina Hospital in Tehran and facilities in Ilam, to abduct wounded demonstrators.+2

The Regime’s Escalation

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has shifted from a stance of “official denial” to a direct call for violence, labeling protesters as “rioters” and “enemy agents.” In a desperate attempt to instill fear, the judiciary executed 15 prisoners over the last 48 hours, including one on charges of “espionage” this morning. Simultaneously, the regime is tightening its grip on the digital world, implementing widespread internet blackouts to prevent the flow of footage to the outside world.

International Context

The movement is gaining unprecedented global attention. U.S. President Donald Trump has issued warnings of direct intervention if lethal force continues, a move that has further polarized the geopolitical landscape. Inside Iran, the calls for a “transitional leadership”—including names like Reza Pahlavi—suggest the people are no longer just protesting for reform; they are preparing for a post-Islamic Republic future.