You’d be forgiven if you missed what’s unfolding in Iran over the past twelve days. Goodness knows there’ve been some other headlines. This unfolding wave of protests may hold more potential for lasting change than any in the past.
Since Iran is home to more than 90 million Muslims, here are five things I think you should know.
- Protests are growing.
They started off in response to an economy in free fall, but now have expanded into the political realm with calls for regime change. The Iranian currency has lost 60% of its value since mid-2025!Between my writing this email and your reading it, protests will have likely expanded to new cities and the rial dropped to new lows.
- Leaders are trying to respond.
The Iranian government is dangling a carrot while wielding a stick: Several dozen protesters have been killed, even though the policy is to not harm peaceful marchers, but resist those deemed violent. At the same time, an cash-equivalent payment of $7/month is being given to almost all Iranians. This will be helpful to the poorest, but seems unlikely to buy peace. - Iranian leaders are facing a two-front war.
In a change from previous times of vast protest, the Ayatollahs are currently facing trial both internal and external. In addition to economic woes and spreading protests, Israel continues to threaten further attacks and President Trump is on record saying he’s ready to come to the aid of the protesters. His colleague and supporter, Senator Lindsey Graham said on Jan. 6th, “And to the Ayatollah: You need to understand, if you keep killing your people who are demanding a better life, Donald J. Trump is gonna kill you.” - Christians are being scapegoated.
As often happens to minorities, Christians in Iran find themselves the focal point for police response. - The Iranian Church has grown like crazy.
While I long for times of peace for all Iranians, and particularly those following Jesus, praise to God and kudos to Iranian Christians who have valiantly endured and grown through struggles I cannot even imagine.
May a fresh time of peace in Persia result in Kingdom advance such that all that has gone before seems small.