
Mo News Interview - Iran’s Breaking Point: Jason Rezaian on the Protests, the Regime, and What Comes Next
Jan 15, 2026
In this insightful discussion, Jason Rezaian, an Iranian-American journalist and former prisoner in Iran, shares his firsthand experiences and expertise on the current protests in Iran. He explains why this moment feels pivotal for ending the Islamic Republic, highlighting internal fractures and economic woes that have left citizens with little to lose. Rezaian emphasizes the importance of various forms of communication under censorship and evaluates potential successors to the regime. He also discusses strategies for external support that can genuinely aid Iranian civil society.
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Public Demand For Systemic Change
- Iranians now openly call for ending the Islamic Republic rather than just reforming it.
- Jason Rezaian feels the prospect of regime change is closer than at any point since 2009.
Powerful Yet Vulnerable Regime
- The regime retains major coercive power but shows signs of weakness and isolation.
- Rezaian judges imminent collapse unlikely, yet long-term viability appears poor.
Why The Regime Stayed Afloat
- The regime stayed in power via repression, perceived security, and subsidized basics like fuel.
- Economic pain and loss of fear explain why people now feel they have 'nothing to lose.'


