The move by the bazaaris, as they are known, is a drastic measure for a group traditionally supportive of the Islamic Republic. CNN could not independently verify the numbers of those killed and arrested, and Iranian state news organizations have sometimes reported individual deaths without reporting a comprehensive tally. “I anticipate that the Islamic Republic that we’re seeing today is one unlikely to see 2027. I really think there is going to be some change.”Who runs Iran and what does it mean for the regime? “The Islamic Republic will not back down in the face of those who are looking to destroy us,” Khamenei added.

Source: CNN January 10, 2026 10:04 UTC