Iran is marching down a path of totalitarian isolationism, building a regime hauntingly reminiscent of North Korea’s tight grip over its citizens.
At a Glance
- The Iranian regime is intensifying domestic repression following a 12-day conflict with Israel.
- Kasra Aarabi suggests Iran is adopting a “North Korea-style model” of isolation and control.
- The level of suppression in Iran is described as unprecedented, with random phone searches and severe consequences.
- Iran imposed an internet blackout during the conflict, manipulating public perception.
A New Era of Suppression
Iran’s government intensifies its crackdown on dissent, escalating measures to consolidate power and reduce freedom within its borders. Following a recent skirmish with Israel, the regime has been quick to black out the internet and clamp down on its populace. Citizens with anti-regime content face severe punishment. With random phone searches, the atmosphere is tense, mirroring oppressive systems like North Korea’s.
Iran regime escalates repression toward 'North Korea-style model of isolation and control'
They fear losing control of the masses.
It seems there is a power struggle from within, as well.From the article:
"We’re witnessing a kind of domestic isolation that will have major… pic.twitter.com/J4r7NCXWlI
— NWRain-Judi (@RYboating) July 4, 2025
Dr. Afshon Ostovar notes “domestic repression remains the regime’s most reliable strategy for survival.”
Watch: Iran regime escalates repression toward ‘North Korea-style model of isolation
Tactical Isolationism
The Iranian regime’s latest moves are analyzed as strategic shifts towards isolation. Kasra Aarabi, director of IRGC research at United Against Nuclear Iran, argued that Iran is accelerating toward a North Korea-style model of governance. Under this framework, the regime seeks to sever ties with the outside world, reducing foreign influence. This alarming development shows Iran locking itself in a self-sustaining bubble by pushing self-dependency and heightening ideological uniformity.
“According to Kasra Aarabi, director of IRGC research at United Against Nuclear Iran, the Islamic Republic is accelerating toward what he said is a ‘North Korea-style model of isolation and control.'” – Kasra Aarabi Source
The consequences for the Iranian public could be dire. The Iranian leadership’s pursuit of nationalistic fervor fueled by seclusion leads to paranoia, further reducing any internal opposition’s visibility and strengthening their oppressive hold.
Instability Within
Beneath the surface, the regime struggles with its own internal challenges, needing a façade of stability to cover up its vulnerabilities. The IRGC, Iran’s powerful military force, already experiences fractures within its ranks, with younger officers raising questions. A power struggle is brewing, threatening potential purges. Iran’s military faces degradation, leading them to potentially rely increasingly on terrorism as a strategic doctrine.
The regime’s posture, reminiscent of North Korea’s rigid governance, underscores its fear of instability. As Kasra Aarabi highlights, this adherence to iron-fisted rule is an indication of the leadership’s inherent weaknesses, not strength.
