Politicology Iran on the Brink—The Weekly
Jan 17, 2026
In a gripping discussion, Jay Solomon, an investigative journalist specializing in Iran, joins guest host Hagar Chemali to dissect the ongoing protests in Iran. They explore how a bank collapse sparked nationwide unrest and delve into the regime's economic fragility. Solomon reveals the weakening of Iran's regional power and the implications for U.S. strike strategies. The conversation also touches on the complexities of protest narratives and the potential outcomes if the government were to fall. Insights on international influence, particularly from Qatar, add depth to the analysis.
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Economic Pain Fueled The Protests
- The December protests began with shopkeepers angry about skyrocketing inflation and collapsing currency, not just political repression.
- Jay Solomon explains economic collapse, especially food prices up 72%, made the protests mass and existential for many Iranians.
Bank Collapse Symbolized Regime Corruption
- A privileged bank tied to IRGC elites stole depositors' money and was bailed out until the state could no longer afford it.
- That banking collapse symbolized elite corruption feeding inflation while ordinary Iranians can't afford food, igniting outrage.
October 7 Weakened Iran Regionally
- October 7 and its aftermath degraded Iran's regional proxy network and weakened Tehran's bargaining chips.
- Jay Solomon argues lost proxies and a degraded nuclear program leave Iran geopolitically and economically vulnerable.
