Iran’s Leadership Stumbles After War and Unrest

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 6 min read 100% complete by Declan WalshJanuary 24, 2026 at 11:00 AM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

Following Israeli airstrikes in June 2025 that decimated the leadership of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, a new generation of leaders rose to power amidst economic stress, potential sanctions, and ongoing threats. In response to nationwide protests from late December 2025 to mid-January 2026, these new leaders initiated a brutal crackdown, resulting in thousands of deaths. While seemingly demonstrating unity, experts suggest the violent response reveals the growing fragility of Ayatollah Khamenei's rule. The crackdown highlights the regime's struggle to manage domestic unrest and international pressure simultaneously. The US President has warned Iran against harming protestors.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States ×260% Donald Trump ×260% Israel ×370% Tehran ×270% Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps ×280% Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ×290% Iran ×10100%

Keywords

iranian leadership 90% bloody crackdown 90% domestic unrest 80% protests 80% ayatollah ali khamenei 70% islamic revolutionary guards corps 70% military conflict 70% international sanctions 60% military strikes 60% economic stress 50%