Islamic Republic has no option but to wage war to survive, Iranian student says – interview

Amid growing fears of a wider conflict in Iran, a left-wing student in Tehran, Minoo, stated that "The Islamic Republic has no option but to engage in warmongering in order to survive." She argues that the regime uses external conflict to justify its armed presence and suppress internal dissent, fearing a popular uprising like the January 2026 "revolt of the underprivileged classes." Human rights activist Parishad Kavyani emphasized the Iranian people's courage, noting, "this struggle did not begin with the war, and it will not end when the war ends." The article highlights intensifying protests over living conditions, economic hardship, and the apparent absence of effective leadership following the deaths of principal leaders, with economists warning of the economy's destruction. Despite diplomatic efforts and a framework agreement, the regime is reportedly seeking greater concessions from the US through continued conflict, while simultaneously attempting to silence domestic opposition.