Iran faces surging protests, economic collapse as war, leadership crises deepen - interview

Fears of a wider conflict are escalating in Iran, even as diplomatic negotiations continue. While President Trump has called off the immediate threat of renewed military operations, civilians remain braced for potential damage to critical infrastructure. Simultaneously, labor unrest, economic hardship, and ongoing protests against executions are severely testing the authorities' capacity to contain domestic dissent.

Civil protests have intensified across various cities, with pensioners notably demonstrating. The government, having lost key leaders, is preparing for a potential scenario of urban warfare against armed opposition. A left-wing student at a Tehran university, who identified herself only as Minoo for security reasons, stated, "The Islamic Republic has no option but to engage in warmongering in order to survive, because under conditions of peace it would have no justification for keeping its armed forces in the streets under the pretext of war." She believes the military presence stems from a fear of popular uprising, referencing a past revolt by underprivileged classes.

Minoo argues that while war might occupy some of the regime's military forces, an end to external hostilities could intensify confrontations between protesters and authorities. She suggests the conflict provides the government a pretext to increase domestic repression. Signs of confusion and disorder are evident within the government structure, particularly following a recent uprising and the deaths of principal leaders. The absence of Mojtaba Khamenei, the presumed leader, has fueled speculation about his health and potential injuries, though these claims remain unverified. His absence is reportedly causing division and demoralization among the regime's supporters.

An end to hostilities could paradoxically intensify internal clashes within Iran. The student activist suggested that the ongoing conflict serves as a justification for the government to tighten its grip on domestic affairs. The regime is reportedly grappling with internal divisions and a lack of clear leadership following recent events, including the deaths of key figures. The unconfirmed reports surrounding Mojtaba Khamenei's well-being have added to the uncertainty and instability within the ruling structure.

“

The Islamic Republic has no option but to engage in warmongering in order to survive, because under conditions of peace it would have no justification for keeping its armed forces in the streets under the pretext of war.