Iranian Director Jafar Panahi Warns of Looming Crisis Amid Protests

Acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi is calling on the world to pay close attention to the escalating unrest in his home country. In a recent interview, Panahi expressed deep concern over the widespread demonstrations that have erupted across Iran, cautioning that the situation could soon take a devastating turn. The director, known for his film inspired by his own imprisonment, spoke out as reports indicate that more than 2,000 people have lost their lives during the ongoing protests.

Panahi’s latest work, which draws from his personal experience as a political prisoner, has garnered significant recognition, earning four nominations at the 2026 Golden Globes, including Best Motion Picture – Drama. Yet, while he’s been in the spotlight abroad, his homeland has been gripped by turmoil. The Iranian government has imposed a sweeping communications blackout, cutting off both internet and phone access since last week.

Dire Warnings and Communication Blackouts

Panahi did not mince words about the gravity of the situation.

The Islamic Republic has entirely lost its legitimacy, and now there is no more doubt of that,

he stated. He went on to explain that the regime appears to be at a breaking point, with this year’s protests standing out as the most significant in recent memory.

It appears that the regime is finding itself at a dead end, and the protests this year seem to be the most important of anything that’s happened all these years, and because it is about its existence or non-existence, it is going to do anything.

Describing the impact of the communications shutdown, Panahi said,

The internet and the phones are all shut down. We cannot call cell phones or landlines; everything is disconnected. When they shut down the internet completely, we knew what was going on: it means a massacre is coming.

Personal Stakes and Political Upheaval

Panahi himself faces ongoing legal challenges in Iran. He was recently sentenced in absentia to another year in prison, a verdict he is currently appealing. Despite these risks, he has stated his intention to return to Iran after completing the international promotion of his latest film.

The protests, which began in late December as a response to soaring inflation and shortages of basic goods, have since evolved into a broader movement against the country’s leadership, particularly targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Many observers believe these demonstrations could mark a turning point in Iran’s history, possibly signaling the beginning of major political change.

International Response and Panahi’s Plea

The unrest has drawn attention from global leaders. President Donald Trump has threatened military action if the Iranian government responds to protestors with violence and has imposed steep tariffs on nations conducting business with Iran.

Panahi’s message to the world is urgent and clear.

I don’t know what can be done,

he admitted.

But we are in a situation that anyone and everyone around the world – journalists, citizens, politicians, anybody – can do something. Anything they can do, they must.