Consider This from NPR What do we know about what's happening in Iran?
18 snips
Jan 12, 2026 
Greg Myrie, NPR's national security correspondent, delves into the ongoing protests in Iran, highlighting the staggering casualty numbers and the regime's communication blackouts. Franco Ordonez, NPR's White House correspondent, discusses President Trump's potential responses, balancing human rights rhetoric with the complexities of U.S. military action. They explore the vulnerabilities of Iran's leadership, the impact of regional defeats, and the scaled responses from Congress and exiled figures. The dynamics between protester protection and U.S. intervention shape a compelling narrative.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Personal Impact Of The Shutdown
- Holly Doghris, who grew up in Iran, said she hasn't heard from family in days because of the shutdown.
- She noted Starlink messages trickle in but serve only a tiny fraction of Iran's 90 million people.
Communications Blackout Hinders Reporting
- Iran's government cut internet and phone services, leaving most of the 90 million population isolated.
- Limited Starlink access helps only tens of thousands, so most internal events remain unknown externally.
Protests Shift From Economy To Regime Change
- Iran's protests began over economic collapse and expanded into calls for democratic change against the theocratic regime.
- Information is scarce due to an internet and phone shutdown, so on-the-ground details remain fragmented.