Iranian Regime Faces Internal Unrest Amid Economic Crisis and Protests

Iran is experiencing significant internal challenges as widespread protests, driven by economic hardships and political grievances, continue to unfold. Demonstrations have erupted across the nation, with participants expressing frustration over soaring inflation, currency devaluation, and government mismanagement.

In response to the unrest, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly acknowledged the protests, attributing the violence to foreign interference. He stated, "several thousand" individuals had died amid recent nationwide protests, blaming external enemies such as the United States and Israel for orchestrating the unrest.

The Iranian government's crackdown on protesters has been severe, with reports indicating that security forces have used live ammunition against demonstrators. Human rights organizations estimate that at least 500 protesters have been killed, with some sources suggesting the actual number may exceed 2,000.

Amid the turmoil, internal divisions within Iran's ruling elite have become more pronounced. Disputes over policies, such as adherence to the Convention on the Financing of Terrorism (CFT), have led to significant infighting. Speaker Mohammad-Baqer Ghalibaf forwarded the ratification law to President Masoud Pezeshkian, despite opposition from 150 MPs who labeled it a "danger to national security."

The economic crisis has also galvanized various segments of society, including shopkeepers and the middle class, who have been severely affected by the collapsing rial and rising living costs. Protests led by these groups have spread to multiple cities, reflecting deepening dissatisfaction with the regime's handling of the economy.

In this context, the potential for elite fractures and internal power struggles within the Iranian regime is increasing. Observers suggest that if the current leadership fails to address the mounting pressures, elements within the ruling establishment may seek to depose Supreme Leader Khamenei to preserve their influence and the system's stability.