IRAN’S prevailing internal turmoil is problematic for its ruling elite and alarming for the entire region.

The rising inflation and economic grievances have unleashed demonstrations across the country on December 28, 2025, which have evolved into an open call for regime change and a challenge to the ideological foundations of Iran. The demise of the nearly 46-year political system may satisfy the opposition and create a conducive regional environment for Israel and the United States Middle Eastern agenda, but it could be a recipe for instability in the region. The political spillover will have serious repercussions for the neighbouring states. It sharpens sectarian cleavages and intensifies radicalized militancy, reshaping the dynamics in the Middle East.

The most alarming factor in the prevailing Iranian imbroglio is President Donald Trump’s signaling of military adventurism against Iran. The Trump Administration’s endeavor to exploit Iran’s internal situation to destabilize its political system is a repeat or revival of previous playbooks. The Americans had attempted to dethrone the clergy by quashing the ideological foundation of the state on various occasions, but miserably failed. The primary objective of President Trump’s vocal support of the protestors, intensifying economic sanctions and military invasion threats to Iran is to discredit the Iranian ruling elite and replace it with puppet leadership, which will roll back Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, systematically cut its military........

© Pakistan Observer