Why I Can't Stop Thinking About Iran Right Now
I usually talk about other things here, but I feel like I have to speak up about what’s happening in Iran. To me, it’s the most important story in the world right now.
Over the last week, we’ve seen tens of thousands of Iranians take to the streets to stand up against a regime that has been brutally repressing them since 1979. It’s not just about politics, though; it’s about survival. The economy there is basically in a freefall. To give you an idea of how bad it is, one U.S. dollar is now worth 1.47 million rials. The currency lost 80% of its value in just one year. People can’t afford food, and they’re dealing with constant power outages and water rationing.
What makes it even more infuriating is the hypocrisy. You have a government that brutalizes young girls for how they wear a hijab, while the families of those same officials are all over social media flaunting their wealth and “living it up.” The corruption is everywhere.
On the global stage, we know Iran is the main sponsor behind groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. They were the only major country to actually celebrate the October 7th attacks. It reminded me of Masih Alinejad, a dissident living in New York. The regime didn't just arrest her family back home to silence her; they actually sent assassins to her house in Brooklyn. It’s a miracle she’s still alive.
There’s really no other word for this leadership than evil.
Despite the government’s “savage” response—shooting protesters, making thousands of arrests, and cutting off the internet—the people are still marching. Every hour feels like history in the making. Seeing the courage of everyday Iranians, young and old, is honestly inspiring. They are literally risking everything for a chance at a normal life. It feels like this time, things might actually change.
But the reality is, they probably can’t do it alone. We’ve already seen the U.S. take action with the strikes on nuclear facilities six months ago, and there’s been a clear warning that there will be consequences for killing protesters.
In my opinion, the world—and especially the U.S.—would be so much better off if this regime fell. This is a once-in-a-generation moment to support people who are fighting for the same freedoms we often take for granted.
I really hope we don't let this opportunity pass.
If America stands for anything, it should be moments like this.