Iranian Activist on Protests, Regime's 'Apocalyptic Moment' Strategy

Protests and Communication Blackout

• 🚫 There is no news coming out of Iran, which is described as the most terrifying aspect of the current situation.
• 😥 Several individuals who were active on social media have gone silent since January 8th, with no updates or communication.
• 🌐 The government's shutdown of the internet and all communication channels isolates its people from the outside world, exacerbating the fear.

Regime's Strategy and 'Apocalyptic Moment'

• 🗣️ The supreme leader is accused of blaming US President Trump for the death toll, despite Trump's stated support for the protesters.
• ⏳ The Iranian leadership is seen as digging in rather than letting up, driven by a decades-long trajectory towards a final confrontation with the US.
• 🔮 This confrontation is framed as an 'apocalyptic moment' that the regime's founding fathers have been building towards, seen as a way to pave the way for the arrival of the 'hidden imam' or Muslim Messiah.

Role of Security Forces and Imported Militias

• ⚠️ While acknowledging that security forces may eventually refuse to participate in atrocities, this tipping point has not yet arrived in Iran.
• ⚔️ Imported militia forces from Iraq, experienced in fighting armed groups and mass killings, are reportedly being used against unarmed protesters.
• 😥 These foreign militias, who do not speak the local language or have local ties, are described as 'savages' facing unarmed civilians.

Need for Visible US Support

• 🤝 For protesters to return to the streets, the United States needs to show visible and tangible support for their movement.
• 📉 The regime's suppression of demonstrations has been so deep and violent that recovery and renewed protests may take considerable time.