January 1, 2026
Protests in Iran entered their fifth consecutive day on Thursday, spreading across multiple provinces as public frustration over soaring inflation, a collapsing currency, and rising living costs intensified into clashes with security forces.
The unrest, the most significant since the 2022–2023 demonstrations following Mahsa Amini’s death, began on December 28 in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar when merchants struck in response to the Iranian rial plummeting to record lows—reaching around 1.42–1.45 million rials per US dollar. Inflation stands at approximately 42–50%, exacerbating shortages and price hikes for essentials.
Demonstrations have expanded to at least 26 of Iran’s 31 provinces, including major cities such as Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, Kermanshah, Hamedan, and Fasa. University students have joined merchants and shopkeepers, with rallies reported on campuses in Tehran and elsewhere. Slogans have shifted from purely economic demands to political ones, including calls against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Violence escalated overnight, with reports of several fatalities. Rights groups and media outlets cited deaths among protesters in locations like Lordegan, Kuhdasht, and Isfahan province, while authorities confirmed the killing of a 21-year-old Basij paramilitary member in Kuhdasht. Clashes involved tear gas, live fire, and protesters storming or damaging government buildings in some areas.
In response, President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged protesters’ “legitimate demands,” instructed dialogue with representatives, and accepted the resignation of the central bank governor. Government offices and universities were closed in many provinces, officially for energy conservation amid cold weather but widely seen as a measure to contain unrest. Officials have warned against escalation, attributing some actions to foreign influence.
The situation remains highly tense and fluid, with nightly protests continuing in various cities. International voices, including from the US and EU politicians, have expressed support for the right to protest while urging restraint.
This article will be updated as events develop.