Letter.

Is Iran on the precipice? The National Our readers have their say on the stories of the week January 09, 2026 I write in reference to the article ‘People couldn’t breathe’: Protester describes chaos in Tehran as death toll rises (January 6): Iran’s political class finds itself buffeted by threats both internal and external. The country’s economy has been in dire straits for several years, and people have periodically stepped out of their homes to partake in demonstrations. The current protests have proved deadly and could get worse. This is happening amid the possibility of US and Israeli air strikes on the country, targeting its missile infrastructure. The last thing Iran needs is political turmoil, such as the one Venezuela is facing after a US operation there. To resolve these issues, Tehran’s first step must be to engage in dialogue – with the Iranian public as well as with the American and Israeli governments. – K Ragavan, Bengaluru,India