Iranian-American journalist and women's rights activist Masih Alinejad posted a pointed criticism on X (formerly Twitter) directed at British broadcaster Piers Morgan. She accused Morgan of amplifying narratives that echo the Iranian regime's propaganda during a critical time of widespread protests, internet blackouts, and reported killings in Iran.
Who Is Masih Alinejad?
Alinejad, 49, is a prominent voice against Iran's Islamic Republic regime, known for founding campaigns like #MyStealthyFreedom and #WhiteWednesdays, which encourage Iranian women to defy mandatory hijab laws by sharing photos and videos of themselves unveiled. Exiled in the U.S. since 2009, she has faced multiple assassination attempts allegedly orchestrated by Iranian agents, including plots foiled by the FBI in 2021 and 2022. She's the president of the World Liberty Congress and a frequent commentator on human rights abuses in Iran.
Alinejad's post comes amid escalating unrest in Iran, dubbed the #IranRevolution2026 by activists. Protests erupted in early January 2026, sparked by economic hardships, water shortages, and renewed anger over women's rights following the regime's enforcement of strict dress codes. Demonstrators have taken to the streets in cities like Tehran, Abadan, and Khuzestan, chanting anti-regime slogans and calling for the overthrow of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
The government has responded with force: reports indicate thousands arrested, hundreds killed, and nationwide internet shutdowns to stifle communication and media sharing.
This mirrors the 2022 Mahsa Amini uprising, where a young woman's death in custody ignited similar nationwide defiance.
Alinejad has been vocal on X, describing the movement as a "revolution" rather than mere protests, and urging international support. In recent posts, she's shared videos of crowds in Tehran and other areas, emphasizing that Iranians are fighting for freedom from within, not external interference.
Piers Morgan hosted a debate on the Iranian protests and invited Ana Kasparian, co-host of The Young Turks. Kasparian stated she "hates the mullahs" but argued that regime change should not be "spurred by the United States and Israel." She suggested foreign influences, including Israeli and U.S. involvement, were exacerbating the situation.
