When Emotions Shape Politics: Iran Between Domestic Crisis and World Politics

At a discussion evening hosted by the Ring of Christian-Democratic Students (RCDS), Prof. Dr. Simon Koschut and ZU alumnus Manouchehr Shamsrizi discussed the current situation in Iran and how the regime, the opposition, and international actors are responding in a highly dynamic conflict environment. The discussion focused on the political and security structures of the Islamic Republic, the role of the Revolutionary Guards, forms of cognitive warfare, and the influence of fear, uncertainty, and competing narratives on political decision-making processes. In addition, the discussion addressed the perspectives of the Iranian diaspora, the opposition’s scope for action, and the response of Western actors. Another key focus was on the controversies under international law arising from current developments and on the interrelated consequences for security, legitimacy, and public perception.