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Story summary
- Iran faces escalating protests amid a severe economic crisis and government repression.
- The regime's violent response has increased public anger and boosted support for Reza Pahlavi, exiled son of the Shah.
- Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, now 86, remains a barrier to reform, clinging to power and rejecting dialogue with the United States.
- Analysts say change would come only after Khamenei's departure as the regime faces internal dissent and external pressure.
