Iran's ethnic minorities could hold key to regime's fate as protests continue

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 4 min read 100% complete by Benjamin WeinthalJanuary 16, 2026 at 12:50 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Experts suggest that Iran's ethnic minorities, comprising nearly half the population, could be pivotal in determining the regime's future amidst ongoing protests. These groups, including Azeris, Kurds, Arabs, and Baluch, have historically resisted the central government, seeking greater rights. While protests have spread across provinces, the role of ethnic minorities is seen as crucial for any meaningful political transition. Experts highlight the Kurds' decades-long resistance and significant sacrifices under authoritarian rule. Some reports allege the supreme leader ordered the killing of thousands of protesters, with varying estimates of the death toll. Activists emphasize that no political transition can succeed without the inclusion of ethnic minorities.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Gaza Strip 30% CIA 40% Taiwan Strait 40% Greco-Roman wrestling world championship title 50% United States 50% Shukriya Bradost ×270% Kurdistan region of Iran 80% Ali Khamenei ×480% Iran ×9100%

Keywords

iran protests 100% ethnic minorities 90% regime survival 80% political transition 70% kurdish activists 60% islamic republic 50% human rights 50% authoritarian rule 40%