The Commentary Magazine Podcast Is This The End of the Iranian Regime?
20 snips
Jan 13, 2026 
Eli Lake, an investigative journalist with a focus on Middle East affairs, dives deep into the Iranian regime's current turmoil. He explores historical cycles of protest, from 1979 to today, and highlights the role of economic hardship in fueling dissent. Lake elaborates on the regime's legitimacy crisis tied to Shia burial practices, and the potential for internal fractures among security forces. He urges the U.S. to reject negotiations with Tehran and leverage covert actions while preparing for a post-regime Iran. Insightful and timely, this conversation sheds light on a pivotal moment for Iran.
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Massacre Can Backfire On The Regime
- The regime's willingness to massacre protesters reveals both vulnerability and brutal survival tactics.
- Mass funerals risk fueling larger uprisings in the Shia tradition if the regime overreaches.
Bazaarers Spark Political Change
- This wave began with economic pain and the bazaar merchant class, not only moral policing.
- Bazaris historically tip political crises by joining clerics or protesters and can catalyze broader revolts.
Security Force Fractures Matter Most
- Disobedience within security forces is decisive for regime collapse.
- Middle-level IRGC and Basiji officers have families and economic pain that could produce fissures.
