The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak

The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak

How a drought drives Iran’s protests

Protests sparked by drastic inflation are raging all over Iran. Mehdi has spent years watching Iran’s water shortage drive the country to a tipping point.

Alessandra Hay's avatar
Jacqueline Cole's avatar
Alessandra Hay and Jacqueline Cole
Jan 13, 2026
∙ Paid

Editor’s Note:

From Ukraine to Iran, The Counteroffensive tells human stories behind global struggles for democracy.

Your support helps us keep reporting from the ground.

Upgrade for full access.

Get Full Access!

Tip Jar!

“Before, the younger generation was complaining about having no future or no employment… but now [the issue] is much more fundamental: It’s about food,” said Mehdi…

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2026 Tim Mak · Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start your SubstackGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture