Tehran witnesses sporadic protests as demonstrations spread across Iran, with clashes reported in western regions. The unrest, which began on December 28 as a strike by shopkeepers over economic grievances, has intensified into widespread discontent.
Protesters have been making demands beyond economic issues, fueling concerns that the demonstrations are spiraling into a full-blown political crisis. Local media reports indicate that protesters in Tehran and other cities have taken to the streets, with some chanting slogans such as "death to the dictator."
In western Iran, however, violence has escalated, with clashes reported in several counties, including Malekshahi. A member of security forces was killed in these clashes, according to Iranian media. State-run outlets have downplayed their coverage of the demonstrations, but videos continue to flood social media showing protests in various cities.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has weighed in on the crisis, urging officials to engage with protesters but warning that rioters must be brought to order. His statement recognized Iran's economic struggles, lending legitimacy to the protests from his perspective. Nevertheless, he also made clear that the government will not tolerate violent protests.
The situation remains volatile, with concerns of further escalations if the government fails to address the economic grievances driving the demonstrations. For now, the Iranian capital and other cities continue to witness sporadic but growing protests.
Protesters have been making demands beyond economic issues, fueling concerns that the demonstrations are spiraling into a full-blown political crisis. Local media reports indicate that protesters in Tehran and other cities have taken to the streets, with some chanting slogans such as "death to the dictator."
In western Iran, however, violence has escalated, with clashes reported in several counties, including Malekshahi. A member of security forces was killed in these clashes, according to Iranian media. State-run outlets have downplayed their coverage of the demonstrations, but videos continue to flood social media showing protests in various cities.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has weighed in on the crisis, urging officials to engage with protesters but warning that rioters must be brought to order. His statement recognized Iran's economic struggles, lending legitimacy to the protests from his perspective. Nevertheless, he also made clear that the government will not tolerate violent protests.
The situation remains volatile, with concerns of further escalations if the government fails to address the economic grievances driving the demonstrations. For now, the Iranian capital and other cities continue to witness sporadic but growing protests.