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Chrysostomou: The Response to the Uprising Will Determine the Future of the Iranian Regime

Published January 9, 2026, 10:20
Chrysostomou: The Response to the Uprising Will Determine the Future of the Iranian Regime

International relations expert Charalambos Chrysostomou stated to CNA that the handling of the uprising in Iran will likely determine the future of the Tehran regime. Protests, which began on December 28th, have spread to many cities and have become violent, with the regime attempting to suppress them. Mr. Chrysostomou pointed out that this is the fifth wave of protests in Iran, following those of 1999, 2009, 2017-18, and 2022 (after the death of Mahsa Amini). The main causes of the protests are the appalling economic conditions, high prices, and the authoritarian restriction of human rights. Poverty and economic hardship have led to widespread public discontent. The regime is already weakened, both internally and due to the war with Israel and US attacks. A critical question is whether the United States will intervene, as President Trump has threatened military action if the violent suppression continues. At the same time, it is important how the regime itself will react. A violent crackdown could allow it to remain in power, but the inability to control security forces could lead to political or economic concessions. Overall, the situation in Iran is unstable and the future of the regime is uncertain. The outcome of the uprising will depend on the actions of the regime, the potential involvement of the US, and the ability of the protesters to maintain pressure.