Global News Podcast Iran Special: Q&A
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Jan 12, 2026 
Siavash Ardalan, a BBC Persian correspondent covering Iranian protests, shares chilling eyewitness accounts and discusses the government's violent crackdown. Caroline Hawley, a BBC diplomatic correspondent, analyzes the regime's weakened position and the historical significance of this unrest. Paul Adams, based in Washington, deliberates on U.S. responses and the risks of military action, providing insights into regional dynamics. Together, they evaluate the hopeful yet cautious sentiments among protesters regarding potential foreign intervention.
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Economic Spark Turned Nationwide Revolt
- The protests began over economics but rapidly became a broad revolt against the Islamic Republic, embracing political and social grievances.
- Caroline Hawley warns the regime feels it is fighting for its life and has used unprecedented force to control the streets.
Mortuary Video Revealed Scale Of Killings
- A video from a Tehran mortuary showed hundreds of bodies and families searching desperately for loved ones.
- Siavash Ardalan says that clip revealed the scale of killings previously unknown to outsiders.
US Signals Possibility Of Strong Response
- Donald Trump warned of "very strong options" and said he might act depending on Iran's response to the crackdown.
- Paul Adams notes Trump expected a White House briefing and suggested meetings with Iran were being discussed.