For the second week, mass protests continue in Iran as demonstrators demand the resignation of the current government. Increasingly, protesters are taking to the streets armed. At the same time, reports have emerged that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has prepared an escape plan to Moscow if the authorities fail to suppress the protests, as reported by The Times with reference to Israeli intelligence sources.
Protest actions have swept dozens of cities, with at least 16 killed and 582 people arrested. Clashes between protesters and security forces are intensifying. The United States has warned of a harsh response if killings of protesters continue and does not rule out a strike on Iran if protesters are ignored.
A change of power in Iran, similar to Venezuela, could significantly impact the global balance, particularly affecting China, Russia, and North Korea. Experts note that the collapse of the Iranian regime would deal a significant reputational blow to China and Russia.
In discussions, experts express skepticism regarding the prospects of protests in Iran, highlighting the country's specifics and the deeply rooted regime. However, ongoing unrest could weaken Iran internationally. Western countries, including the US and Israel, have strong interests regarding regime change.
Meanwhile, tensions are rising in East Asia as North Korea has conducted tests of hypersonic missiles that are difficult for current missile defense systems to intercept. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the tests, which are seen as a show of force.
In summary, regime changes and military demonstrations in Iran and North Korea may have a major impact not only regionally but also on global politics, particularly in the ongoing confrontation between autocracies and democracies.
