The 2026 Iran Protests

 

Discord has grown in Iran. The demonstrations are a reaction to economic struggle. The Iranian rial the currency of the country has dropped in value. Sanctions are making it difficult for Iran to engage with the world economy. The protests are not unified. A faction is frustrated about the cost of living and economic challenges. Other groups want to see a change in regime and have connections to the former monarchy. Reza Pahlavi the son of the Shah is a prominent opposition figure. His intent is not to establish a democratic government, rather a restoration of the Pahlavi rule. The third section wants some modest reform to the theocratic government. Reports of murders and injuries to the public by law enforcement reached the international press. The UK responded with trying to get new sanctions imposed. France and the US are exploring punitive measures. These actions are not for the sake of human rights. The goal is to remove Iran as a regional force and secure its oil resources. The fear remains of a large scale regional war and the destabilization following the conflict. The 2026 Iran protests is not the first massive demonstration in the Islamic republic. The 2009 Green Movement saw citizens demonstrate over the electoral process. Dissatisfaction with the government and aggression by foreign powers adds to the public's anger. The demonstrations may to result in the end of the theocracy, but will encourage Iranians to be more active.