Escalating Violence in Iran as Protests Widen Across the Country

Fri Jan 09 2026 08:00:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces intensify, revealing deep-seated frustrations amid economic turmoil.

In the latest waves of protests sweeping across Iran, violent confrontations have erupted between demonstrators and security forces as discontent over the economic crisis grows. Protests have spread to 111 cities, with at least 34 protesters and four security personnel reported dead. Economic grievances triggered the protests, which began when shopkeepers demonstrated against the plummeting value of the Iranian rial.

Violent clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces erupted in multiple locations across Iran as protests sparked by the nation’s economic crisis spread into their 11th day. Reports indicate that two policemen were shot and killed by armed individuals in the town of Lordegan, highlighting the escalating violence.

Videos circulating on social media depict tense standoffs, with gunfire audible in the background and protesters clashing with security forces who are seen firing shots and using tear gas against demonstrators throwing stones. These protests have rapidly expanded, now encompassing at least 111 cities across all 31 provinces of Iran.

The US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) reported casualties from the protests, citing at least 34 deceased protesters and four security personnel. BBC Persian has verified the identities of 21 dead, contrasting with Iranian government reports citing five security personnel fatalities. The unrest began in Tehran on December 28, triggered by protests from shopkeepers against a further devaluation of the rial.

The Iranian economy has been devastated by sanctions related to the nuclear program and aggravated by governmental mismanagement, leading to soaring inflation rates. As protesters have taken to the streets, chants against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have become common, along with calls to support Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the former shah.

Noteworthy occurrences on Wednesday included protests in cities such as Qazvin and Mashhad, where demonstrators have openly clashed with security forces, chanting anti-government slogans. In response, Iranian Vice-President Mohammad Jafar Qaempanah stated that the government recognizes the right to peaceful protest but differentiates between peaceful demonstrators and rioters.

As Iran grapples with these intense protests, experts suggest that public frustration runs deep, stoked by widespread economic struggles and a lack of prospects for the future. The situation remains fluid as the government attempts to navigate the stark divide between addressing grievances and maintaining order amidst escalating violence.