Iran is witnessing its largest wave of protests in three years, sparked by economic hardship, inflation, and declining currency values. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces have spread across the country, including the clerical bastion of Qom, with protesters calling for an end to the theocracy.
The unrest began on Sunday when shopkeepers protested the government’s handling of economic challenges, with students and merchants joining in and shutting down major bazaar markets. Over the past few days, protests have intensified and spread to multiple cities.
Key Points on Iran Protests
- US Warning: Former US President Donald Trump warned on Truth Social that if Iran shoots or kills peaceful protesters, the US would intervene, stating, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go.”
- Casualties: At least seven people have been killed in clashes, including members of the Basij volunteer paramilitary force affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. One Basij member was killed in Kuhdasht, and 13 others were injured, according to authorities.
- Spread to Qom: Protests have reached Qom, a key clerical city, with demonstrators demanding the removal of the theocracy. For the first time in five decades, pro-monarchy slogans have been reported in chants.
- Use of Force: Security forces opened live fire in several cities, including Nurabad in Lorestan and Hamadan in western Iran. Social media videos show officers firing at crowds determined to stay in the streets.
- Support from Reza Pahlavi: Iran’s exiled prince Reza Pahlavi praised the protesters, honoring those killed as “true heroes” and urging national unity to achieve freedom.
- Economic Crisis: Iran’s currency, the rial, has fallen over a third against the US dollar in the past year. Hyperinflation continues to erode purchasing power, fueling public anger.
- Government Response: The civilian government, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, has expressed some willingness to engage with protesters but is limited by the economic crisis, with the rial now valued at around 1.4 million per US dollar.
The protests, though initially economic in focus, have taken a political turn, challenging Iran’s decades-long theocratic rule and signaling growing unrest among citizens frustrated with the country’s financial instability and political system.