Iran is experiencing one of the largest protest movements in years…The protests began in late December 2025 due to economic hardship, inflation and public anger over government priorities…Human rights groups say hundreds have been killed and thousands arrested during the crackdown…Iranian authorities have imposed a nearly nationwide internet blackout, cutting off phone and web access…Iran and Iraq have very deep political, economic and security ties. Instability in Iran reverberates in Iraq…Iran backed militants are active in Iraq…If Iran becomes unstable, these groups could shift focus, change alliances or increase activity to protect Iranian interest. This could destabilize Iraq’s fragile security landscape. :Sandy Ingram
