Iran: Deadly Clashes Mark Second Week of Protests

Unrest driven by economic hardship has spread to most provinces, drawing international attention—as rights groups report hundreds of arrests and rising casualties.

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Shopkeepers and traders cross a bridge during a protest against the economic conditions—including Iran’s embattled currency—and the regime in Tehran on December 29, 2025.

HANDOUT/FARS NEWS AGENCY/AFP.

Unrest driven by economic hardship has spread to most provinces, drawing international attention—as rights groups report hundreds of arrests and rising casualties.

Fresh clashes between protesters and security forces have erupted across Iran, with at least 12 people killed since demonstrations began late last month, according to official figures and rights groups. The protests, sparked by anger over rising living costs, have now entered their second week.

Monitors reported overnight rallies were reported in Tehran, Shiraz, and several western regions, where slogans critical of Iran’s clerical leadership were heard. Rights groups report that demonstrations have taken place in at least 23 of Iran’s 31 provinces, affecting dozens of cities.

The unrest is the most serious challenge to Iranian authorities since the 2022–2023 protests triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody, though it has not yet reached the same scale. Many of the latest protests have been concentrated in Kurdish- and Lor-populated areas in the west.

Rights organisations accused security forces, including the Revolutionary Guards, of using live fire in some locations. At least four protesters were reported killed in Ilam province alone, with dozens more wounded. Iranian media, meanwhile, reported the death of a member of the security forces during clashes.

Authorities say more than 580 people have been arrested nationwide. In response to public anger over the economy, the government announced a temporary monthly allowance equivalent to about $7 (€5.99) per person.

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