Many Iranians who risked their lives protesting against the ruling regime feel betrayed and angry following the U.S.-brokered peace agreement with Tehran. While the deal aims to ease tensions and prevent nuclear escalation, dissidents warn that it has left the Islamist hardliners more entrenched and powerful than before.
President Trump had previously signaled strong support for anti-regime demonstrators, posting on Truth Social in January: “HELP IS ON ITS WAY.” His message came amid reports of thousands killed during brutal crackdowns on widespread protests.
Yet the recently signed agreement, which includes economic relief for Iran and commitments to halt nuclear development and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, has dashed hopes for regime change among opposition voices.
Khosro Isfahani, research director for the Washington-based National Union for Democracy in Iran (NUFDI), told The Post that dissidents are frustrated the regime remains “unchecked” and poised to receive U.S. economic relief.
“They fear this will embolden the Islamic Republic and allow it to redirect the frustration and defeat it suffered at America’s hands into rage against unarmed, innocent Iranians,” he added.
Hessam Rahimian, founder of the Arizona-based Iranian Liberty Foundation, echoed the sentiment, describing himself as “unhappy, upset, and angry” over the weekend deal. “It’s devastating,” he said. “There was a hope for about 30 days for Iranian people, that they’re going to have an opportunity to be free.”
The unrest began in December and January, with tens of thousands taking to the streets over soaring inflation that made basic goods like bread and meat unaffordable for many in the nation of 93 million.
The regime’s response was ruthless, with security forces firing on crowds and estimates of up to 30,000 deaths. Survivors faced arrests, torture, and imprisonment.
Experts note that the agreement could reinforce the regime’s narrative of resilience. Maryam Rajavi of the National Council of Resistance of Iran expressed cautious optimism about curbing warmongering but insisted any deal must halt executions of protesters and political prisoners.
End Time Headlines is a ministry founded, owned, and operated by Ricky Scaparo, established in 2010 to equip believers and inform discerning individuals about the “Signs and Seasons” of the times in which we live. Ricky authors original articles and curates news from mainstream sources, carefully selecting topics, verifying information, and utilizing artificial intelligence tools to ensure content is both timely and accurate. Every piece is personally reviewed and edited by Ricky to align with the ministry’s mission of providing a prophetic perspective on current events.
