Post Reports Will these Iran protests bring the government down?
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Jan 12, 2026 
Yeganeh Torbati, an Iran correspondent for The Washington Post, shares her insights on the escalating protests in Iran, ignited by economic turmoil and a demand for governmental reform. She reveals the alarming reports of a communications blackout and possible casualties amid the unrest. Torbati discusses the protesters' desperate calls for change and how recent chants indicate widespread discontent beyond mere economic issues. She also explores the future of the Iranian regime, drawing parallels to past movements and outlining the complexities of opposition groups.
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Communications Blackout Masks Scale Of Violence
- The government cut off communications, leaving only a trickle of information out of Iran.
- Human rights groups report hundreds killed amid a communications blackout, often from gunshot wounds by security forces.
Bazaar Sparked Nationwide Protests
- Protests began December 28 after the rial collapsed and merchants closed shops in bazaars.
- Students and other sectors quickly joined, turning an economic spark into nationwide demonstrations.
Protests Demand Systemic Political Change
- Chants like "death to the dictator" and calls for the Shah show demands go beyond economics.
- Protesters are signaling fundamental rejection of the Islamic Republic's political order.
