Politicology Iran on the Brink—The Weekly
Jan 17, 2026
In a gripping discussion, Jay Solomon, an investigative journalist specializing in Iran, joins guest host Hagar Chemali to dissect the ongoing protests in Iran. They explore how a bank collapse sparked nationwide unrest and delve into the regime's economic fragility. Solomon reveals the weakening of Iran's regional power and the implications for U.S. strike strategies. The conversation also touches on the complexities of protest narratives and the potential outcomes if the government were to fall. Insights on international influence, particularly from Qatar, add depth to the analysis.
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Blackout And Killings Created A Lull, Not An End
- The regime used snipers and an internet blackout to suppress the first wave, creating a temporary lull, not an end, to unrest.
- Solomon predicts outrage will return because underlying economic drivers remain unresolved.
Consider Hitting Communications And Oil Nodes
- Targeting Iran's communications and economic nodes can level the playing field for protesters without full-scale invasion.
- Solomon and Hagar note cyber or precise strikes on oil export nodes like Karg Island are options to degrade regime revenue.
Symbolic Targets Can Undermine Regime Control
- Symbolic strikes (state TV, IRGC command centers, prisons) can inspire protesters while degrading regime control.
- Solomon cites Israeli actions in the 12-day war as a preview of how limited strikes can shape public perception.
