Ayatollah Khamenei plans to flee to Moscow if Iran unrest intensifies
The Times1 day
Iran's Khamenei Reportedly Plans Moscow Escape Amid Unrest
Is the regime dealing with the root cause of protests, or are reports of Khamenei's intentions exploitation by foreign powers to destabilize Iran?
Above: Burning debris lies in the middle of a street during unrest in Hamedan, Iran on Jan. 1, 2026. Image credit: Mobina/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
Iran's protests stem from legitimate economic grievances, but reports of Khamenei fleeing are unverified intelligence claims designed to destabilize the country. Trump's threats of military intervention mirror his reckless Venezuela operation and risk escalating regional conflict. While demonstrations have spread to multiple provinces, senior regime officials acknowledge Tehran is entering survival mode, suggesting internal reform rather than foreign interference offers the path forward.
Pro-establishment narrative
Khamenei's reported escape plan to Moscow reveals the regime's desperation as protests expose Iran's economic collapse and political instability. With the rial hitting record lows, inflation soaring 72% on food prices and Trump warning of intervention, the 86-year-old dictator faces his most serious threat since taking power. The regime's brutal crackdown has killed at least 35 people, but protesters demanding regime change won't be silenced.
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© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0