Sen. Dave McCormick called the unrest in Iran evidence of the regime’s “bankruptcy,” citing soaring inflation and human rights abuses. The country is experiencing its largest protests in four years amid economic turmoil, while Iran says it has halted uranium enrichment at all sites. Human rights groups report at least 20 dead and nearly 1,000 arrests. McCormick urged cautious U.S. support for protesters rather than direct military-led regime change.
Senator: Iran’s Grip On Citizens 'Crumbling' As Mass Protests Rock Country
Protests show Iran’s grip on its people ‘crumbling’, senator says
Sen. Dave McCormick described the unrest unfolding in Iran as evidence of “the bankruptcy of the Iranian regime.” The Pennsylvania Republican made his remarks during an appearance on the cable program "On Balance."
“Sky-high inflation, the suppression of human rights; their grip on the Iranian people is crumbling,” McCormick said, referring to the largest demonstrations the country has seen in four years. The protests have been driven in part by economic hardship and widespread frustration over living conditions.
Recent Developments
Iran has publicly stated that it is no longer enriching uranium at any site in the country, a move officials framed as a signal of openness to negotiations with Western governments and a bid to ease sanctions.
Human rights groups report that at least 20 people have been killed and nearly 1,000 protesters arrested since violence escalated. The demonstrations continue despite a heavy security response and attempts to limit information flows.
“A regime change, I think, is not an explicit goal. Nor should it be, in my opinion,” McCormick said. “Not through military means, but supporting the people, the freedom fighters on the ground.”
McCormick urged that Iranians seeking to remove the current leadership identify a clear, nonmilitary path forward. He said the United States could provide military capabilities and economic tools to assist but cautioned that any U.S. involvement should be deliberate and measured.
International Response
The unrest followed a public warning from President Donald Trump that if Tehran "violently kills peaceful protesters," the United States "will come to their rescue," a statement that has heightened international attention and raised tensions in diplomatic circles.
The situation remains fluid. Observers say economic pressures, political grievances and human rights concerns have combined to produce sustained unrest, and the prospect of negotiations over Iran's nuclear program has become another focal point for both domestic and international actors.
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