Tensions Rise in Iran as Protests Turn Deadly Amid Economic Struggles

Thu Jan 01 2026 23:12:50 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Protests in Iran escalate, resulting in two fatalities during clashes between demonstrators and security forces over economic grievances, drawing attention to the nation's currency crisis and calls for political change.

In the midst of growing unrest in Iran, two protesters have reportedly been killed in Lordegan during confrontations with security forces as demonstrations continue over the soaring cost of living. Initiated by a currency collapse, protests have rapidly spread nationwide, demanding an end to the supreme leadership and a return to the monarchy. Despite government assurances to address grievances, responses from officials suggest a stringent crackdown as unrest intensifies.

Two people are reported to have been killed during growing unrest in Iran on the fifth day of protests over the soaring cost of living.

Both the semi-official Fars news agency and the human rights group Hengaw reported fatalities stemming from clashes between protesters and security forces in the city of Lordegan, located in southwestern Iran.

Recent footage posted on social media depicts cars being set alight amid violent exchanges between demonstrators and police. The growing unrest has sparked widespread calls among protesters for an end to the rule of the Supreme Leader, with some advocating for a return to the monarchy.

This fifth day of protests follows a severe currency collapse that has further aggravated tensions. Videos confirmed by BBC Persian capture protests across the capital Tehran, Lordegan, and the southern Fars province on Thursday.

Fars news reported that in Lordegan, two individuals were killed, as indicated by an informed official, although it remains unclear whether they were demonstrators or security personnel. Rights group Hengaw identified the victims as Ahmad Jalil and Sajjad Valamanesh, claiming they were among the protesters.

In a separate incident, state media noted that a member of the security forces connected to Iran's Revolutionary Guards was killed during confrontations on Wednesday night in the western Lorestan province. However, protesters argue that he was part of their group and was shot by the security forces.

Additionally, 13 police officers and members of the Basij paramilitary group were reported injured during stone-throwing incidents. In a bid to quell dissent, schools and universities across the country were closed on Wednesday following a government-declared bank holiday, ostensibly to conserve energy due to cold weather, though many believe it was an attempt to stifle the protests.

The demonstrations, initially sparked by grievances from shopkeepers over a drastic drop in the Iranian currency's value, have escalated to involve university students and citizens in various cities, chanting against clerical leadership.

While these protests may not match the scale of those following the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini—who died in police custody over an alleged hijab violation—they underscore significant public unrest. The government has initiated tight security measures in Tehran and affected areas to prevent further escalation.

President Masoud Pezeshkian has pledged to acknowledge the legitimate demands of the protesters, while prosecutor general Mohammad Movahedi-Azad warned of a firm response to any disruption of stability.