Iran's Revolutionary Guard Fears New Protest Wave Amid Economic Strain
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is warning the Tehran regime of a potential new wave of protests, fueled by escalating tensions and economic hardship, according to Israeli sources. An Israeli official told i24NEWS that a "cocktail" of alternating economic pressure, military action, and diplomatic maneuvers orchestrated by the United States is impacting Iran.
A report submitted by the Revolutionary Guard's intelligence division several days ago highlighted this concern, specifically warning of a scenario where Israel and Lebanon could exploit such unrest. Hossein Taeb, commander of the Basij forces, reportedly supports the intelligence report's findings.
Amidst the crackdown and economic pressure, Iranian opposition and media outlets report numerous death sentences and executions over the past two weeks, alongside floggings, arrests, and threats of swift trials. Among those detained are students and faculty from the Kurdish region of Iran. There are also claims that Afghan mercenaries have been hired by the Iranian government to suppress demonstrations.
Hardline factions are reportedly criticizing Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi for not enforcing hijab laws, while Raisi's associates argue that economic stability should be prioritized over enforcing the veil. The president himself is attempting to de-escalate domestic tensions, with hardliners suggesting the next protests might emerge from those concerned about hijab enforcement.
Simultaneously, the Revolutionary Guard is instructing Iranian unions and manufacturers to adopt a "war economy" footing, increasing production despite significant damage to the steel, oil, petrochemical, and textile sectors. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has spoken of a "power narrative," advising against revealing the severity of the country's problems to enemies, which he believes aids them during wartime. This aligns with recent statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who described the Iranian regime as being on "chicken legs."
