Iranian citizens have taken to the streets in recent days to protest the worsening economic situation, and the protests have continued to escalate, spreading to rural provinces on Thursday, January 1st. According to Iranian authorities, clashes between security forces and protesters have resulted in at least six deaths so far.
This is the largest scale of protests in Iran in the past three years, triggering violent conflicts in multiple regions primarily due to skyrocketing inflation. The current period is a critical moment for the Iranian regime as Western sanctions have severely impacted the country’s economy, with an inflation rate as high as 40%. Furthermore, the Israeli and American airstrikes in June 2025 heavily damaged Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and military leadership, exacerbating the challenges faced by the Iranian regime.
The clashes between protesters and security forces mark a significant escalation since the protests erupted last Sunday, December 28th, resulting in at least six deaths: one on Wednesday, December 31st, and five on Thursday, from three different cities in Iran.
The most intense violent incident reportedly occurred in Azna, Lorestan Province, Iran. Videos circulating online show items burning on the streets, gunshots ringing out, and people shouting “Shame! Shame!”
The semi-official Fars News Agency reported clashes between security forces and protesters in Lordegan, western Iran, resulting in two deaths. The agency had previously reported multiple casualties. Human rights organization Hengaw also indicated casualties caused by security forces in the area. Authorities confirmed one death in the western city of Kuhdasht, with another death reported in Isfahan Province in central Iran.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard stated one fatality and 13 injuries within the military ranks, holding protesters accountable for the casualties.
The government has responded to the protests by initiating dialogue, seemingly adopting a conciliatory approach alongside security measures. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated on Thursday that authorities would engage in direct discussions with union and business representatives, without disclosing specific details.
According to Iran’s official Tasnim News Agency, the prosecutor in Kuhdasht announced that 20 individuals were arrested during the protests.
While the current scale of protests remains limited, it signifies the growing discontent among the Iranian population, with people reclaiming public spaces and personal freedoms through acts of resistance.
(This article was compiled with reference to reports from Reuters and the Associated Press.)