Tensions between Iranian protesters and security forces escalated at Tehran's historic Grand Bazaar, with violent clashes reported for the 10th consecutive day of nationwide demonstrations. Protesters, who began their movement over economic grievances and rising prices, have been met with tear gas, arrests, and even hospital raids.
At least 35 people have lost their lives in the protests, while more than 1,200 others are currently in detention. Human Rights Activists news agency (HRNA) reports that demonstrators have taken to the streets in over 257 locations across 88 cities nationwide.
Iran's president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has blamed worsening economic conditions on international sanctions and the country's limited income sources. He acknowledged the government's lack of control over the economy, saying it would be forced to implement measures that could further exacerbate inflation.
The Iranian rial has plummeted in value, losing nearly two-thirds of its worth against the US dollar over the past three years. A recent move by the central bank to curb a programme providing preferential exchange rates for businesses is expected to lead to even higher prices and shortages.
Eyewitnesses describe scenes of chaos at protests, with traders hoarding essential goods in anticipation of further inflation. The average price of cooking oil has already doubled, and many other items are unavailable due to the shortage.
Iran's authorities have walked a fine line between crushing dissent and appearing conciliatory. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged the legitimacy of protesters' demands but called for those engaging in violence to be "put in their place."
US President Donald Trump has intervened, threatening to take action if Iranian authorities harm protesters. However, this warning has sparked criticism from Iranian officials, who see it as a threat to national sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the situation in Venezuela continues to dominate global headlines as US forces capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
At least 35 people have lost their lives in the protests, while more than 1,200 others are currently in detention. Human Rights Activists news agency (HRNA) reports that demonstrators have taken to the streets in over 257 locations across 88 cities nationwide.
Iran's president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has blamed worsening economic conditions on international sanctions and the country's limited income sources. He acknowledged the government's lack of control over the economy, saying it would be forced to implement measures that could further exacerbate inflation.
The Iranian rial has plummeted in value, losing nearly two-thirds of its worth against the US dollar over the past three years. A recent move by the central bank to curb a programme providing preferential exchange rates for businesses is expected to lead to even higher prices and shortages.
Eyewitnesses describe scenes of chaos at protests, with traders hoarding essential goods in anticipation of further inflation. The average price of cooking oil has already doubled, and many other items are unavailable due to the shortage.
Iran's authorities have walked a fine line between crushing dissent and appearing conciliatory. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged the legitimacy of protesters' demands but called for those engaging in violence to be "put in their place."
US President Donald Trump has intervened, threatening to take action if Iranian authorities harm protesters. However, this warning has sparked criticism from Iranian officials, who see it as a threat to national sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the situation in Venezuela continues to dominate global headlines as US forces capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
I'm seriously worried about what's happening in Iran right now... all these violent clashes and detentions 
and the death toll is just getting higher 
it's heartbreaking to see innocent people losing their lives over economic grievances. I feel like we should be seeing more from world leaders on this issue, especially with the US intervening as they are 
I mean, sometimes it feels like the breaking news gets lost in all the other content 
do you guys think we need a 'trending' section to highlight the most important stories?
35+ lives lost already? like what's goin on? 
protesters are fightin back against high prices and sanctions but its gettin outta hand. anyone think iran will just sit back & let it happen? 
they got to do somethin, or the ppl will just take matters into their own hands 
. 257 locations across 88 cities? thats a lotta people 
. I feel bad for those who can't even afford basic necessities like cooking oil 
. The situation is super tense, but at the same time, I'm really hoping that the protests will lead to some real change.
, but it feels like that could just escalate the whole thing... anyway, my only hope is for the protesters' demands to be heard and for everyone involved to stay safe 
IT'S LIKE THEY'RE STUCK IN A TIME LOOP AND CAN'T ESCAPE THE PROTESTS 
THE GOVERNMENT NEEDS TO LISTEN TO THE PEOPLE AND FIND A SOLUTION THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE 
ANYTHING LESS IS JUST GOING TO LEAD TO MORE CHAOS AND INFLATION 
I'm literally feeling so much love and compassion for all those protesters in Iran 
They deserve our support and solidarity 
. I mean, who needs that much chaos in their lives? And honestly, 35 deaths is a lot, but it feels like a drop in the bucket considering the global situation right now. 
. And Trump's 'protecting' the protesters with an empty threat? Not exactly reassuring... 
still not sure if the protesters will get what they want or just get hurt even more 
its all about finding a balance between giving the protesters space for their demands and not letting them get out of hand 
and now they're taking to the streets. its not just economic stuff, its a whole way of life thats being squeezed 
Can't they just talk things out and find a peaceful solution? 
And let's not forget about the economic damage - inflation has doubled cooking oil prices and shortages are rampant. It's like, what even is happening in Iran? 
. I can imagine how scary it must be for them to see their city in chaos 
.
, but at the same time I feel bad that Iranian officials are getting defensive 
. Can't we all just try to understand each other's perspectives? 
. It's not like this is going to improve their economy or anything. And with inflation soaring and shortages everywhere... it's just a mess 
. And yeah, the economy situation is a total mess