The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim Is the Iranian regime about to fall?
Jan 14, 2026
Tensions are soaring as protests erupt in Iran, fueled by economic hardship and political discontent. Richard and Yalda delve into the potential consequences of regime change and discuss President Trump's ambiguous support for the protesters. Insights from Shervin Pishevar reveal the crucial role of technology, like Starlink, in empowering activists under duress. They also reflect on Iran's tumultuous history and ponder the implications of potential U.S. intervention. The future remains uncertain as they assess the fragility of the current regime.
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Economic Pain Sparked Broader Revolt
- Iran's protests began as economic unrest among bazaar merchants and quickly morphed into broader anti-regime demonstrations.
- High inflation and sanctions left citizens unable to transact, fueling widespread anger against the theocratic government.
Regime Survival Depends On Internal Splits
- Iran's stability rests on internal cohesion; regime collapse usually requires splits within security forces.
- Richard Engel warns that without fractures from within, external strikes alone won't produce durable regime change.
1953 Coup Framed Modern Iranian Distrust
- Richard recounts Iran's 20th-century oil history and the 1953 CIA/MI6-backed removal of Mossadegh.
- He links that coup to the 1979 revolution and lasting distrust of US/UK interference.