After Egypt, Protests Ripple Throughout the Region

A ripple of activism is spreading across the Middle East, following Egypt’s popular uprising that ended three decades of authoritarian rule.  Iran’s opposition rallied in Tehran despite a government ban, and the Palestinian cabinet resigned Monday. What does this change mean for the United States’ role in the Mideast? William Yong, reporter for The New York Times is in Tehran, where he’s been watching the protests.
A democratic ripple is spreading across the Middle East, following Egypt’s transition from three decades of authoritarian rule. Overnight, Iran’s opposition rallied in Tehran despite a government ban, while there are reports that the Palestinian cabinet will resign, following protests. The popular uprisings could transcend regional borders, and spur democratic change in others parts of the world, such as Latin America.
Stephen Kinzer, Professor of International Studies at Boston University. Author of several books, including “Reset: Iran, Turkey, and America’s Future”, helps contextualize the wave of protests.