Jafar Panahi: A Voice of Resistance Amidst Iran's Protests

Jafar Panahi, the acclaimed Iranian filmmaker, is observing a new wave of protests in Iran that began in late December 2025. These protests, which have spread across all 31 provinces, have reportedly resulted in the deaths of 28 protesters and bystanders between December 31 and January 3, according to Amnesty International. Panahi, currently in the U.S. promoting his film "It Was Just an Accident," believes that this moment could signify a turning point for the Iranian regime. He asserts, “No one can really predict how long it will take. It could be a year, a month, a week. But eventually they will fall.”

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Despite his international acclaim, Panahi faces significant personal challenges. He has been sentenced in absentia to a one-year prison term and a two-year travel ban for alleged "propaganda activities" against the Iranian government. As he navigates these legal troubles, he remains committed to returning to Iran, stating, “I need to breathe there and work there.” He emphasizes that the current political climate does not deter his resolve to return, as he believes it is the regime that should leave, not the people.

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Panahi has expressed skepticism regarding the necessity of U.S. intervention in Iran, particularly in light of comments made by former President Donald Trump about supporting regime change. He argues that true change must come from within the Iranian populace, stating, “Until people have the will to change something from within, nothing will be able to make that change.” He believes that while international support can be beneficial, it is ultimately the Iranian people who must drive the movement for change.

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In a show of solidarity, Panahi recently shared an appeal on Instagram, signed by 184 individuals from various sectors, including film and sports, advocating for freedom of expression and condemning the repression of protesters. He notes that this collective voice reflects a broader desire for change within Iran, stating, “It’s not just film people; it’s also athletes and prominent names in other guilds in Iran who believe that there should be a change.”

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Panahi has been critical of the Iranian judicial system, describing it as lacking independence and often acting under state directives. He explains that the term "appeal" in Iran is often a misnomer, as decisions are typically confirmed rather than reviewed. This context raises concerns about the fairness of his upcoming trial, which is set to continue amid the ongoing unrest.

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As Panahi continues to advocate for the rights of the Iranian people, he remains hopeful that the current protests will lead to significant change. He perceives the regime as already having fallen in various aspects, stating, “It’s only a shell that is in existence.” His commitment to returning to Iran and his active participation in the discourse surrounding the protests underscore his belief in the potential for a new chapter in Iran's history.

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