Widespread protests grip Iran over economy as crackdown intensifies
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Anti-government protests continue to sweep across Iran for a second week, driven by a deepening economic crisis and widening public discontent, amid a heavy security response and rising casualties, local and international sources reported on Tuesday.
The demonstrations, which began in late December 2025 with shopkeepers striking over soaring prices and economic stagnation, have spread nationwide, reaching more than 250 locations across at least 27 of Iran’s 31 provinces, according to activist data.
At least 35 people were killed—including children—and more than 1,200 protesters detained, activists say, while clashes with security forces have persisted.
Protesters have also taken to the streets of Tehran and other major cities for a ninth consecutive day, with strikes, slogans against the government and speeches reflecting broader anger over unemployment, inflation and political repression.
Observers note that initially economic grievances have increasingly overlapped with calls for political change.
Domestic authorities have adopted a hard line. Iran’s judiciary chief vowed “no leniency” toward what the government labels “rioters,” even as officials acknowledge the right to peaceful demonstration, signaling a determined posture by state institutions against the unrest.
The United Nations warned against further bloodshed and urged Iran to uphold freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Meanwhile, international attention has grown after U.S. political figures expressed support for protesters and warned the Iranian leadership against using lethal force.