Iran's foreign ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, expressed frustration as leaders gathered in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, to discuss Middle East relations. While Iran was invited to the summit, it chose not to attend. Baghaei stated that Iran, as a "responsible country," aims to end the violence in Gaza. However, he criticized the normalization of ties, claiming it has been exploited by the "Zionist regime" to justify its actions in the region.

Iran is currently facing significant challenges, including international isolation and economic pressure. The U.S. has implemented a campaign of "maximum pressure" aimed at reducing Iranian oil exports to zero. Recently, new sanctions were imposed on 90 individuals and entities involved in illicit oil and gas trade, which is crucial for Iran's economy. Additionally, G7 foreign ministers announced the reinstatement of United Nations sanctions, citing Iran's violations of the 2015 nuclear deal.

The consequences of these sanctions are severe. Reports indicate that Iran is experiencing mass layoffs, soaring inflation at 40%, and a declining currency. The country is also grappling with water shortages in summer and inadequate gas supplies in winter, leading to frequent power outages. The cost of basic food items has risen beyond the minimum wage, which has dropped from $180 a month in March to under $130.

The Iranian government is aware of the potential unrest that could arise from these economic strains. In 2019, a significant increase in gasoline prices led to widespread protests, which were met with a violent crackdown resulting in over 100 deaths. In response to its vulnerabilities, Iran often seeks to suppress dissent both domestically and internationally.

Human rights advocates are calling attention to the plight of political prisoners in Iran, including Reza Khandan. Khandan was arrested last December for opposing compulsory hijab laws. He is the husband of Nasrin Sofoudeh, a human rights lawyer who previously served seven years in prison for defending citizens' rights to free expression. After international pressure, Sofoudeh's sentence was reduced, and she was released on medical grounds. Khandan, however, remains in custody for his activism, including producing buttons that oppose the hijab law. He has publicly stated, "I demand the freedom of all political prisoners and I continue to protest against the mandatory hijab."

In the first nine months of this year, Iran has executed over 1,100 individuals, highlighting the regime's harsh stance on dissent. Advocates are urging countries like Canada to increase pressure on Iran and demand Khandan's release.

Canada has also been urged to take action against Iranian influence within its borders. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was designated a terrorist organization in Canada in July 2024, and efforts are being made to prevent the regime from finding refuge in the country. The Canada Border Services Agency is investigating 66 individuals suspected of being high-ranking officials from Iran, who would be inadmissible under Canadian law. A report estimated that around 700 individuals linked to the Iranian regime may be residing in Canada, prompting calls for further scrutiny and action against these individuals.