Global Faultlines podcast | Iran Crisis Explained: Will the Islamic Republic survive U.S. pressure and regional escalation?

In late December 2025, Iran was hit by a nationwide uprising triggered by the collapse of the Rial and deepening economic distress. What began as anger over inflation and currency instability quickly broadened into political demands, with protesters challenging the authority of the Islamic Republic.

The state’s response was swift and forceful with mass arrests, reported fatalities, and a near-total internet blackout that has limited independent reporting. The scale of unrest across provinces suggests a moment of significant internal strain.

The crisis unfolds against mounting external pressure. The United States has revived elements of its “maximum pressure” policy while pursuing nuclear talks in Oman. Israel is recalibrating its regional strategy after the post–October 7 escalation. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical energy chokepoint, with any disruption carrying global consequences, including for India.

In this episode of Global Faultlines, we examine whether Iran’s current unrest marks a turning point for the regime, or another chapter in its long history of survival under pressure.

Expert: Stanly Johny, International Affairs Editor, The Hindu 

Research, Editing and Production: Sharmada Venkatasubramanian 

Camera: Shivaraj S

Listen to more Global Faultlines episodes: