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Iran’s last chance: what the West can still do to save Iran – Dr Thamar Eilam Gindin

Feb 3, 2026
Dr Thamar Eilam Gindin, specialist in Iranian language, culture and political mythology, explains signs of deep strain inside Iran. She outlines the surge in executions, use of foreign militias against protesters, mosque burnings and funerals turned into rallies. She discusses why removing one leader may not end the system, how Western narratives misread events, and why crowds rally around Reza Pahlavi.
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INSIGHT

Executions Target The Population's Will

  • Mass executions aim primarily to terrify the Iranian populace and signal deterrence.
  • Gindin says the world briefly notices reports but then attention fades.
ANECDOTE

Death Checks And Hospital Arrests

  • Security forces perform 'death checks' in hospitals and arrest wounded protesters.
  • Gindin relays reports of doctors prevented from treating the injured and arrests after hospital visits.
INSIGHT

IRGC Built To Prevent Military Turnover

  • The IRGC was designed to prevent military defections by splitting military loyalty.
  • Gindin explains the IRGC's role as a revolutionary corps separate from the national army.
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