Jacobin Radio Long Reads: Iran Under Fire w/ Eskandar Sadeghi-Boroujerdi
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Aug 21, 2025 Eskandar Sadeghi-Boroujerdi, a scholar of Middle Eastern politics at the University of York, dives deep into the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He discusses the tragic civilian toll of recent military actions and the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Israel relations. The podcast uncovers significant protest movements in Iran, particularly the Women Life Freedom Movement, and reflects on Ali Khamenei's complex leadership amidst increasing tensions. Sadeghi-Boroujerdi also addresses Iran’s pursuit of nuclear capabilities and the geopolitical ramifications of ongoing conflicts in the region.
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2022 Protests Shook Iran Without Toppling It
- The 2022 Women, Life, Freedom protests combined gender, ethnic and economic grievances into a powerful nationwide movement.
- The demonstrations shook the state but key coercive pillars remained intact, enabling harsh repression.
Raisi's Death Shifted Iran's Political Trajectory
- Raisi's death and the snap 2024 election weakened the conservative consolidation project and opened space for a pragmatist president pursuing sanctions relief.
- Low turnout reflected public distrust and constrained the new government's maneuverability.
Khamenei Still Calls The Shots
- Ayatollah Khamenei remains the decisive figure, managing factions and red lines across foreign and security policy.
- His role in rapidly replacing decapitated commanders during the 12-day war showed he still exerts pivotal authority.
