In the aftermath of protests triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini, the article explores the fragile state of the Iranian regime as analyzed by French Middle East expert Gilles Kepel. He emphasizes that the Iranian leadership's reliance on repression is not sustainable, especially as the protests were led by groups that are not typically pivotal in the political-economic balance, notably women who wield only symbolic forms of pressure. This highlights a significant shift in societal dynamics within Iran, where voices of dissent are increasingly rising from unexpected sectors.

The article further underlines the economic collapse that underpins this social unrest. Iran's currency has plummeted, losing 45 percent of its value in just six months, while food inflation skyrockets to 75 percent. This economic crisis is exacerbated by poor governance, which cripples the country from utilizing its vast natural resources, notably its extensive gas reserves, needed to stabilize the economy. Such conditions contribute to a broader narrative of despair that fuels the protests and calls into question the regime's effectiveness.

Kepel also indicates that neighboring Arab states fear the potential for chaos in Iran, which could spill over into their own territories. The article suggests that the regime’s weaknesses are paradoxically becoming its shield against potential threats, as the international community watches closely. As this situation evolves, the implications for both domestic governance in Iran and regional stability remain profound, signaling a potential tipping point for the Islamic Republic.