Protests in Iran have surged recently, driven by escalating living costs and rampant inflation, marking a significant moment in the nation’s socio-political landscape. This wave of demonstrations, which began on December 28, 2025, has already spread to at least 78 cities, making it the most substantial civil unrest since the protests following Mahsa Amini’s death in police custody in 2022. However, the current protests, while notable, have not yet reached the scale of their predecessors. The backdrop of these events is particularly complex, as they coincide with renewed military threats from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding Iran’s ballistic missile program.
The protests have garnered considerable attention from international observers, particularly in Washington and Tel Aviv, where there is a palpable hope among some factions that these demonstrations could lead to the downfall of the Islamic Republic. Israeli opposition leader Naftali Bennett has publicly encouraged Iranians to rise up, framing the protests as an opportunity for a “better Middle East.” His sentiments were echoed by various Israeli officials, including the science minister and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, who have donned “Make Iran Great Again” hats in a show of solidarity.
Despite the fervor in some media narratives, Israeli intelligence assessments suggest that the current protests do not pose an immediate threat to the Iranian government. Yet, this has not deterred certain American media outlets from amplifying the narrative that the regime is on the brink of collapse. Reports have circulated claiming that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is contemplating an escape to Moscow, drawing parallels to other leaders who fled during crises.
Historically, Israel has sought to instigate dissent within Iran, as seen during its military operations in June 2025, where Netanyahu urged the Iranian populace to “stand up” against their government. This rhetoric has shifted over time, with some Iranian opposition figures, who previously opposed foreign intervention, now calling for support from Israel at what they perceive as a critical juncture for their country.
The involvement of Israeli intelligence in the protests is a matter of contention. While Iranian authorities have claimed to have arrested a Mossad agent, the extent of Israel’s operational role remains unclear. However, the Israeli government has made it evident that it intends to portray a significant presence in these protests, a stark contrast to previous U.S. administrations that hesitated to publicly support opposition movements for fear of undermining their legitimacy.
Netanyahu’s recent statements reflect a shift in strategy, as he has openly expressed solidarity with the Iranian people, stating that Israel identifies with their aspirations for freedom and justice. This public backing has been accompanied by calls from Israeli officials for tangible support for the protesters, suggesting a desire to leverage the unrest for geopolitical gain.
The situation is further complicated by the recent abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of civil unrest in authoritarian regimes. The U.S. has signaled a willingness to intervene militarily if Iranian protesters face violent crackdowns, a threat that carries significant implications for the Iranian leadership.
While some Iranian opposition figures abroad have welcomed this support, the historical context of U.S. interventions raises concerns about the true intentions behind such actions. The aftermath of Maduro’s ouster illustrates the risks of foreign involvement, as new regimes often find themselves sidelined in favor of external interests, particularly in resource-rich nations.
As the protests in Iran continue to unfold, the interplay between domestic discontent and international geopolitics will be crucial to watch. The Iranian populace is caught in a complex web of aspirations for change, external manipulation, and the harsh realities of their socio-economic conditions. The outcome of these protests may not only shape Iran’s future but also redefine the dynamics of power in the broader Middle East.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research