Iran at the Crossroads: Crisis, Continuity, or Transformative Change in the Islamic Republic

Abstract

Speakers Arman Mahmoudian Alan Eyre Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran has undergone profound political, social, and geopolitical transformations. The establishment of the Islamic Republic reshaped the country’s internal governance, embedding a theologically grounded political system that has combined ideological control with sustained repression. Regionally, Iran has pursued an assertive foreign policy, including support for non-state actors and a contested nuclear program that has resulted in prolonged negotiations and far-reaching international sanctions. Recent nationwide uprisings and the regime’s violent response have intensified both domestic and international pressures. These developments raise urgent questions about the resilience of the Islamic Republic, the dynamics of opposition within Iranian society, and the potential trajectories ahead. This webinar will examine the origins and evolution of the post-1979 political order, its societal and international consequences, and the possible scenarios that may unfold—whether gradual reform, systemic transformation, or continued authoritarian consolidation. Particular attention will be given to the implications of these developments for regional stability and global politics.