Several people were reported killed during overnight protests in Iran, as demonstrations over soaring prices and worsening economic conditions escalated into violence in multiple regions, according to Iranian media outlets and human rights groups.
The unrest, described as the largest wave of protests in the country in nearly three years, erupted amid mounting public frustration over inflation, unemployment, and declining purchasing power. Semi-official Iranian news agency Fars and Kurdish rights group Hengaw reported fatalities in the western city of Lordegan, though exact casualty figures remain unclear.
Videos circulating on social media showed crowds gathering in streets, chanting slogans and confronting security forces, while authorities imposed heightened security measures in several provinces. Iranian officials have yet to release a comprehensive statement detailing the deaths, but state-linked media acknowledged “security incidents” in parts of the country.
Iran’s economy has been under severe strain, with inflation hovering at high levels despite repeated government assurances of stabilisation. Rising food prices, currency depreciation, and reduced household incomes have placed increasing pressure on ordinary citizens, particularly in provincial cities where economic hardship is often more acute.
The protests mark a significant flare-up in public dissent following relatively subdued unrest in recent years. Analysts say the demonstrations reflect deep-rooted economic grievances rather than organised political mobilisation, though authorities often frame such protests as being influenced by foreign actors.
Rights groups warned that the situation could deteriorate further if economic conditions continue to worsen. Hengaw said security forces used force to disperse crowds in several locations, while internet disruptions were reported intermittently, limiting the flow of independent information from affected areas.
Iran has experienced repeated waves of protests over the past decade, often triggered by economic pressures. In 2019, demonstrations over fuel price hikes led to widespread unrest and a heavy security crackdown. More recently, protests linked to social freedoms and governance issues also drew international attention.
As of Thursday, it remained unclear whether the latest unrest would spread to major urban centres or subside in the coming days. Observers say the government faces a difficult balancing act between enforcing order and addressing the economic grievances driving public anger.
Authorities have urged calm, while state media called on citizens to avoid gatherings deemed illegal. Meanwhile, families in affected areas are seeking clarity on the reported deaths, as calls grow for transparency over the handling of the protests.
