Iranian Public Feels Betrayed Amid Confusing US Policy and Internal Regime Tensions
Dr. Tamar Eilem Gindin, an Iran expert from the Azrieli Center at the University of Haifa, discussed the complex and confused sentiments among the Iranian people caused by the fluctuating policies of former US President Donald Trump toward Iran. Trump’s inconsistent approach, oscillating between threats of war, negotiations, and military strikes, has left many Iranians uncertain about risking their lives to overthrow the clerical regime, especially as promised American support has yet to materialize.
Opponents of the regime feel deeply betrayed, particularly after Trump failed to intervene during the brutal crackdown on protesters in January, when tens of thousands were reportedly killed. Some speculate that both the US and the Islamic Republic are stalling for time, with the current unpredictability possibly reflecting hopes for a policy reversal. Recent easing of internet restrictions in Iran has allowed more information to surface, including AI-generated videos portraying Trump negatively, reinforcing perceptions of him as a traitor among Iranians.
Interestingly, pro-regime supporters have also staged protests, notably against the nuclear deal and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, signaling internal government disputes. A statement from the Assembly of Experts criticized these moves as violations of commitments, highlighting tensions between the Revolutionary Guards and the government. Dr. Eilem Gindin suggests these demonstrations might be a strategic ploy to pressure Trump into negotiating with a more moderate faction rather than a hardline one.
She describes the ongoing negotiations as a "jewelers’ bargaining," where competing factions present inflated demands to force a compromise. While anti-regime protests remain limited, the situation could change rapidly. Past incidents show the Revolutionary Guards often act independently of presidential directives, underscoring internal power struggles. Dr. Eilem Gindin notes that despite disappointments, the spirit of resistance persists among Iranians, who recognize they cannot rely on foreign promises and must prepare to act independently. However, she cautions that all assessments remain speculative and subject to rapid change.
