The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim The Iranians who want Trump to intervene
Jan 16, 2026
Moj Mahdara, founder of the Iranian Diaspora Collective, and Azadeh Afsahi, a dedicated human rights activist, dive into the urgent desires of the Iranian diaspora. They discuss the heart-wrenching anxiety of having family cut off from the outside world and the longing for intervention. Both express hopes for a restored connection to their homeland while sharing personal memories that define their identity. They analyze the driving forces behind Iran's protests and the high stakes for those risking everything for change, highlighting the profound connection to culture and heritage.
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Protests Are Part Of A Long Pattern
- Iran's protests have repeatedly reappeared over the last decade and reflect deep, ongoing grievances rather than one-off events.
- Yalda Hakim explains the 2009, 2019 and 2022 protests as part of a persistent pattern of unrest tied to youth aspirations.
Youth Demographics Change The Equation
- Iran's young population (over half under 35) has little memory of the 1979 revolution and seeks different futures.
- Yalda Hakim notes that this demographic shift changes political dynamics and resilience of the regime.
Diaspora Experience Roller-Coaster Emotions
- Azadeh Afsahi describes a roller-coaster of numbness, rage and helplessness among diaspora unable to reach contacts in Iran.
- She emphasizes constant checking for updates and the emotional toll of the information blackout.