Nationwide Protests Erupt in Iran Amid Economic Crisis and Political Unrest

Since late December 2025, Iran has been engulfed in nationwide protests, initially sparked by economic grievances such as soaring inflation and the severe depreciation of the Iranian rial. The demonstrations have rapidly evolved into broader anti-government movements, with participants demanding significant political reforms.

The unrest began on December 28, 2025, when shopkeepers and merchants in Tehran's Grand Bazaar closed their businesses in response to the rial's collapse, which reached a record low of approximately 1.45 million to the U.S. dollar. These economic challenges have been exacerbated by international sanctions and recent regional conflicts.

Protests have since spread to major cities including Isfahan, Shiraz, and Mashhad, drawing diverse groups from various socio-economic backgrounds. Demonstrators have been chanting slogans such as "Death to the Dictator" and "Freedom, Freedom," expressing their dissatisfaction with the current regime.

In response, Iranian authorities have implemented severe measures, including internet and communication blackouts, to suppress the protests. Security forces have reportedly used live ammunition and tear gas against protesters, resulting in at least 62 deaths and over 2,300 arrests, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has signaled a forthcoming crackdown, accusing protesters of "destroying their own streets" to please foreign adversaries. He stated, "These rioters are ruining their own streets and neighborhoods to please Trump."

The protests have also seen calls for the return of the monarchy, with chants like "Pahlavi will return," referring to Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the late Shah of Iran. Pahlavi has urged for mass demonstrations, despite the government's efforts to stifle communication.

The situation remains volatile, with the Iranian government facing one of its most significant challenges in recent years. International observers continue to monitor the developments closely.