‘Game is over’: Iran’s ex-leaders, hardliners clash after protest killings

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Maziar MotamediFebruary 3, 2026 at 09:24 PM
‘Game is over’: Iran’s ex-leaders, hardliners clash after protest killings

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Following the killing of thousands during nationwide protests in January 2026, several of Iran's former leaders, including those imprisoned or under house arrest, have issued strong condemnations of the government. The Iranian government claims 3,117 people were killed during the protests, while human rights organizations estimate a higher number. Former Prime Minister Mir Hossein Mousavi, under house arrest since 2009, stated the current system is unwanted and called for a constitutional referendum and peaceful transition of power. Other reformist figures, like Mostafa Tajzadeh, have also criticized the current leadership. These statements have drawn threats from hardliners within the Iranian government, highlighting the deep divisions and escalating tensions within the country.

Keywords

iran protests 100% political repression 80% islamic republic 70% mir hossein mousavi 70% political reform 60% constitutional referendum 50% transition of power 50% human rights 50% hardliners 40%

Sentiment Analysis

Very Negative
Score: -0.70

Source Transparency

Source
Al Jazeera
Political Lean
Center (0.00)
Far LeftCenterFar Right
Classification Confidence
90%

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).

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