Three changes that could escalate Iran’s protests

Source: Mission Network News

Iran (MNN) — Iran’s currency changes promise more pain for consumers as economic protests continue. Store shelves emptied, and food prices spiked as the rial fell to record lows yesterday.

Surprisingly, the Iranian regime appears restrained and ready to offer relief to its people. However, Edwin Abnous of Heart4Iran says real change is unlikely.

“They may promise some reform, but the core problem is not going to go away, and that is crushing sanctions, deep-rooted corruptions, and then the security-first approach that they have for the budget,” he explains.

Tehran shopkeepers took to the streets on December 28 when the rial collapsed to its lowest rate in months. While widespread, current protests lack revolutionary power.

“This wave, on its own, isn’t likely to topple the regime, not yet,” Abnous says.

“History tells that bringing down an authoritarian system like Iran usually [requires] three things to align at the same time.”

First, protests must shake the economy, he explains. Second, demonstrations need “some kind of unifying leadership to coordinate all this scattered anger into a focused movement,” Abnous says.

Third, there must be “Real cracks into the security system: units refusing orders, and at least hesitation when they’re told to fire on crowds.”

Iranians are desperate for hope. Ask the Lord to put His words in the mouths of Heart4Iran operators, who point callers to the Prince of Peace. Learn more about Heart4Iran’s ministry here.

“Our call center is ready, literally, 24/7,” Abnous says.

“Anytime an Iranian calls in, we’re ready to pick up the phone. We call ourselves a ministry that never sleeps.”