The Globalist Wednesday 31 December
Dec 31, 2025
Scott Lucas, an Iran expert from the Clinton Institute, analyzes the ongoing protests sparked by economic turmoil and currency collapse, emphasizing the regime's fragility and the public's call for reform. Nina dos Santos discusses escalating UAE-Saudi tensions in Yemen and their implications for regional stability. Lars Bavanger shares insights on Norway's chess culture, its festive traditions, and concerns about New Year's fireworks safety. Lastly, William Drew sheds light on the evolution and cultural impact of the World's 50 Best Restaurants list.
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Economic Collapse Fuels Political Unrest
- Iran's protests began as shopkeeper strikes over a collapsing rial and spread nationally into universities and other cities.
- Scott Lucas says the economic collapse and soaring inflation fuel broader political unrest with potential to unsettle the regime.
Targeted Repression Over Mass Crackdowns
- Authorities have used targeted detentions and a heavy security presence rather than mass crackdowns so far.
- Lucas says selective repression aims to diffuse protests but may need rethinking if unrest grows.
Fragmented Leadership Limits Coherent Response
- Iran's leadership is fragmented between reformist centrists and hardliners like the Revolutionary Guards.
- That split limits coherent responses and creates uncertainty over whether reforms or crackdowns will follow.