Iran, protests, and sanctions

The podcast explores the economic impact of US sanctions on Iran and their unintended consequences. It traces three key moments in Iran's economic history: the post-revolution rejection of Western influence, a period of economic opening in the 90s, and the contraction caused by comprehensive sanctions starting in 2010. While sanctions aimed to curb Iran's nuclear program and regional activities, they also led to economic hardship for ordinary Iranians, increased inflation, and a devalued currency. The discussion highlights how sanctions can inadvertently benefit the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and function as a form of warfare, causing significant mortality. Despite the Iran nuclear deal intended to provide economic relief, banks' reluctance to re-engage with Iran and the subsequent US withdrawal from the deal further exacerbated the economic situation, fueling protests and government crackdowns.