Nationwide protests erupt in Iran following Mahsa Amini's death, fueling civil unrest

The death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody after being arrested for allegedly improper hijab wearing triggers massive protests across Iran. Women's rights activists and demonstrators demand justice and broader freedoms, with ''Woman, Life, Freedom'' becoming the protest rallying cry. Though primarily a civil rights movement, the protests reflect deep public frustration with government restrictions and hardline policies. The movement impacts nuclear diplomacy by complicating the Iranian government's negotiating position. Weakened by domestic instability and international criticism, Iran's leadership becomes less flexible on nuclear concessions. Internal Iranian politics shapes external nuclear negotiations.