The nation, once known for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks, has in recent times been engulfed in a storm of social and political turmoil.
Just a year prior, Iran was the epicenter of a nationwide revolt. The streets echoed with chants that vehemently opposed the ruling clerical regime, with phrases such as “death to Khamenei” becoming emblematic of the people’s growing disdain. Within days, what began as isolated protests morphed into a widespread movement that challenged the regime’s very foundation.
The Iranian regime’s reaction was swift and brutal. The subsequent year witnessed a tug-of-war of ideals – the people’s clamour for justice against the regime’s desperate attempts to quash dissent. Despite the impression that the regime seeks to convey – of having restored the balance of power – ground realities tell a different tale. Soaring inflation rates, a spiralling economy, rampant unemployment, and deep-seated discrimination serve as potent indicators that the nation is on the brink of another massive upheaval.
A poignant detail about the September 2022 protests is the diverse demographic that took to the streets. Women were at the forefront, challenging not only societal norms but also a regime that has been synonymous with repression for over four decades. Universities, meant to be bastions of the regime’s ideology, saw students rise in revolt. This was complemented by significant participation from high school students, illustrating the depth of the nation’s desire for change.
The West, which often seemed blindsided by the extent of Iran’s internal struggles, would do well to revisit the series of uprisings since December 2017. These movements, which grew both in scale and radicalism, underscore the regime’s inability to introduce significant economic or political reforms. The regime, cognizant of the dangers of introducing sweeping changes, remains paralysed and resorts to merely firefighting issues without a clear long-term vision.
Join us to be the voice of the Iranian women & youth & in support of #IranProtests: #FreeIran rally – Tuesday. Sept. 19, 2023, 10:00AM Dar Hammarskjold Plaza, NY
Ebrahim Raisi does not represent the people of #Iran & is not welcome to NYC & the @UN GA. He is a mass… pic.twitter.com/Hp3wuRREOB
— IAC New York (@IAC_NY) August 22, 2023
The current Supreme Leader, Khamenei, is not oblivious to the simmering discontent. His strategy, however, has been focused on consolidating power among his loyalists, further fueling the populace’s calls for sweeping regime change.
Rajavi’s commentary concludes with a clear message for the West: the Iranian populace is unyielding in its pursuit of liberty. Western policies must be realigned with this undeniable truth. The days of placating the Iranian regime should end, with measures such as designating the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist entity. The time has come to recognize and support the Iranian people’s unassailable right to challenge oppression.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu
