A wave of unrest is sweeping across Iran, with protests erupting in nearly all of the country’s provinces over a deepening economic crisis and increasingly restrictive policies. reports indicate at least 35 people have been killed in the last nine days of demonstrations, as authorities attempt to suppress the widespread discontent with increasingly forceful measures. The protests, fueled by soaring inflation and accusations against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, represent a notable challenge to the Islamic Republic and have now begun to include students at universities nationwide.
At least 35 people have been killed in Iran during nine days of ongoing protests, according to reports from human rights activists. The demonstrations, fueled by economic hardship and widespread discontent, represent a significant challenge to the country’s authoritarian government. The latest figures, provided by the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (Hrana), indicate that 29 protesters, four children, and two members of Iranian security forces have died in the unrest.
Hrana, which relies on a network of activists within Iran, has a history of providing accurate information during periods of civil unrest. More than 1,200 people have been arrested across the country as authorities attempt to quell the demonstrations, the group reported.
Protests have erupted in at least 88 cities throughout Iran, with demonstrations reported in nearly all of the country’s provinces. Major cities, including Tehran and Mashhad, have seen large numbers of people taking to the streets. The judiciary of the Islamic Republic announced Monday that it would prosecute protesters without leniency.
Students Join Protests in Large Numbers
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Students have joined the protests at a minimum of 17 universities nationwide, according to Hrana. The student newsletter Amirkabir reported violent arrests on the campus of Birjand University on Monday evening.
Meanwhile, the semi-official Fars news agency, which is closely affiliated with Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, stated late Monday that approximately 250 police officers and 45 members of the Basij volunteer militia – also part of the Revolutionary Guard – have been injured during the demonstrations. This suggests a significant escalation in clashes between protesters and security forces.
The protests were initially sparked by a deepening economic crisis and soaring inflation. Demonstrators are also voicing anger at Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, accusing him of leading the country into international isolation through his uncompromising policies. The unrest highlights the growing frustration within Iran over economic conditions and political restrictions.
