Iran Crisis Update, January 17, 2023
Protest activity among petrochemical workers increased significantly, suggesting protest coordination among some labor groups.
Intelligence and Security Minister Esmail Khatib defended Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Secretary Ali Shamkhani from unspecified political attacks.
Russian Presidential Aide Igor Levitin met with several senior Iranian officials in Tehran.
At least seven protests occurred in seven cities across six provinces including the petrochemical workers’ activities.
The Iranian Neighborhood United Front (INUF) tweeted declaring its support for Reza Pahlavi.
A Tehran Provincial prosecutor announced that the LEC identified and arrested an alleged protest leader tied to a neighborhood youth protest group.
President Ebrahim Raisi discussed efforts toward achieving “cultural transformation” in a Supreme Cultural Revolution Council meeting.
https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-crisis-update-january-17-2023
Iran Crisis Update, January 18, 2023
Protest activity in Iran may increase on January 19-20.
Iran faces worsening domestic conditions amid the ongoing natural gas shortage throughout the country.
At least one protest occurred in one city across one province.
The Mashhad Neighborhood Youth tweeted declaring its support for and loyalty to Reza Pahlavi.
Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi denied that Ali Shamkhani will leave his position as Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) secretary.
Social media users reported a heightened security presence throughout Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchistan Province.
The European Parliament passed a resolution calling on the EU to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al Jubier made a blanket statement calling on Iran to end its nuclear program during an interview with CNBC.
https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-crisis-update-january-18-2023