The unprecedented convergence of internal and external pressures makes these protests distinct.

“This is the biggest moment in Iran since 1979,” said William Usher, a former senior Middle East analyst at the Central Intelligence Agency.

Demonstrations initially focused on economic issues but as they have grown and become political the regime has responded with deadly force

From a hostage crisis, a years-long war, and a nuclear dispute, Iran's struggles remain pivotal to its identity.

The unprecedented convergence of internal and external pressures makes these protests distinct.

The ongoing mass demonstrations in Iran are the largest protests the country has seen in about half a decade. Although this current round of nationwide demonstrations began as a…