State of the World from NPR Even Amid Violent Crackdowns, Iran’s Protests Continue
Jan 12, 2026
Ruth Sherlock, an NPR foreign correspondent known for her on-the-ground updates in Iran, joins Holly Dagres, an Iran analyst with deep-rooted ties to the country. They discuss the ongoing protests against the Iranian regime amid violent crackdowns, with alarming casualty figures reported. Holly highlights how these protests differ from past movements, fueled by a desire for democratic change. They also tackle the implications of U.S. diplomacy and potential consequences for the protesters, emphasizing the challenges of communication for families in exile.
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Economic Grievances Became Political Uprising
- Protests began over economic collapse and escalated into nationwide calls to end the theocracy.
- Human Rights Activists in Iran reports protests in every province and more than 500 protesters killed amid heavy security clashes.
Morgue Scenes Highlight Human Cost
- Relatives identified dozens of bodies wrapped in black body bags outside a morgue near Tehran.
- State TV framed protests as U.S. and Israeli provocations while families mourned on the ground.
Regional Losses Weaken Tehran's Grip
- Iran's regional military setbacks have weakened the regime's projection of power.
- Holly Dagres says defeats of proxies have exposed costly state investments that now undermine regime legitimacy.