Prominent Iranian director Jafar Panahi spoke out about the intense nationwide protests gripping Iran, describing the country’s government as effectively hollowed out by widespread dissent and repression. Panahi made his comments from Los Angeles on January 8 while promoting his latest film, It Was Just an Accident, which has become a notable contender during this year’s awards season.
The protests began in late December amid severe economic hardship and quickly spread across the country. Iranian security forces responded with force, leading to a deadly crackdown; U.S.-based rights groups report thousands of demonstrators killed and tens of thousands arrested as authorities attempted to suppress unrest.
Speaking through a translator, Panahi said that in his view, the regime had collapsed politically, economically, ideologically, and even environmentally — leaving only a fragile shell in place. He stressed the need to consider what comes next for Iran and whether cycles of violence can be broken as the nation looks toward its future.
Panahi’s own history with Iran’s government has been marked by repeated arrests, bans on filmmaking, and ongoing restrictions. Despite these challenges, he has continued to make films that reflect on freedom and resistance, with his work serving as both artistic expression and commentary on social conditions.
It Was Just an Accident uses its narrative to explore themes of accountability, vengeance, and the possibility of reconciliation — ideas that Panahi says echo real questions facing Iranians today.
Iran protests prompt filmmaker Jafar Panahi to say regime has “fallen”
By Media Team
