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**Originally released October 21, 2021**

Could a spark of liberation emerge in a world of oppressive leaders? Join me, your host, and Alex Vatanka, the founding director of the Iran program at the Middle East Institute, as we examine the recent upheaval in Iran triggered by the tragic death of a 22-year-old woman arrested for a 'bad hijab'. Together, we peel back the layers of this rapidly unfolding crisis, shining a light on the violent reaction of the Iranian regime, the organic expansion of the protests, and the role of Iran's Supreme Leader.

This episode is a journey back in time to 1979, revisiting the birth of the Islamic Republic and the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution. It's a closer look at the intricate dance between Iran and the US, the simmering anger in Iran’s younger generation, and the ripple effects leading to a significant Iranian diaspora. We don't shy away from the tough topics, tackling the Supreme Leader's hardline ideology and the escalating economic despair of Iran's citizens. We also venture into the nuances of the ongoing protests, exploring the symbolic power of the anti-hijab movement and the internal fight between theocracy and secularism.

We wrap up with a thought-provoking discussion on the potential repercussions of this current unrest. Is this the tipping point for Iranians to reclaim their future? What will leadership after Ayatollah Khamenei have to contend with? We explore these questions and more, as we grapple with the complexities of a nation on the brink of change. Here's an episode that offers an enlightening perspective on the internal dynamics of a highly charged geopolitical hotspot - as viewed through the lens of a seasoned expert. So, are you ready to step into the heart of the storm?

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