Front Burner Iran revolt: What’s the endgame?
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Jan 16, 2026 
Gregg Carlstrom, a seasoned Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives deep into Iran's ongoing mass protests, detailing the shocking scale of government crackdowns and rising casualties. He highlights the potential for swift trials and executions, exploring the regime's existential fears amid worsening crises. As internet blackouts complicate information flow, Carlstrom assesses U.S. intervention possibilities and the fragmented state of Iranian opposition. He draws chilling parallels with Syria's fate, warning of renewed protests tied to upcoming memorials.
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Scale Of State Violence
- This crackdown is far deadlier and faster than Iran's 2022 protests, with confirmed deaths already in the thousands.
- Gregg Carlstrom says this may be the worst state violence by the Islamic Republic in living memory.
Morgues And Hospitals Overrun
- Families have found bodies in morgues and sometimes must pay to reclaim them, adding abuse to loss.
- Hospitals are overrun with gunshot victims and security forces have removed wounded people from care.
Public Promises Of Executions
- Iranian judiciary officials publicly promised quick trials and executions for accused protesters.
- Gregg Carlstrom warns those statements and history make executions a well-founded fear.