Violent confrontations between anti-government protesters and security forces continue across Iran, as demonstrations driven by a deepening economic crisis entered an 11th day.
Two police officers were shot dead in the south-western town of Lordegan, while videos circulating online showed gunfire, tear gas, and running battles in multiple cities.
The protests, which began in late December over the collapsing value of the rial and soaring inflation, have since taken on a political dimension, with crowds chanting slogans against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—and in some cases voicing support for the exiled Pahlavi dynasty.
Human rights monitors say at least 34 protesters and four security personnel have been killed so far, with more than 2,200 arrests reported, though independent verification remains difficult due to media restrictions.
Iranian officials have attempted a mixed response of restraint and warning, pledging not to crack down on peaceful demonstrators while vowing swift punishment for what they describe as “rioters.” The unrest is the most widespread since the 2022 protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, underscoring persistent public frustration over economic hardship, corruption and political repression.
