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2025–2026 Iranian protests: Death toll thousands, regime blames US and Israel
Protests erupted across Iran starting December 28, 2025, initially over economic crisis including high inflation and currency collapse, evolving into demands to end the Islamic Republic regime. Government crackdown caused thousands of deaths; internet cut off and foreign interference blamed.[1][2][4]
Why It Matters
Largest uprising since 1979 Revolution challenges regime stability amid economic collapse and repression, with potential for regime change or escalated violence.[1][2]
Timeline
4 Events
New protest in Zahedan after cleric's sermon
January 16, 2026
Small anti-regime protest in Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province, following sermon by Sunni cleric Moulana Abdol Hamid criticizing regime violence.[3]
Reza Pahlavi and Komala Party call for unified action
January 8, 2026
Protests escalate after Reza Pahlavi calls for unified protests and peaceful transition referendum; Komala Party calls for general strike.[1]
Protests continue on day 9 with chants and strikes
January 5, 2026
Chants of 'Death to Khamenei' in Tehran; strikes in Marvdasht; protests reach small towns like Yasuj, Saman, Sangsar, Kushk; families confront authorities.[1]
Protests begin in Tehran Grand Bazaar
December 28, 2025
Demonstrations start with bazaari merchants striking over record inflation, food prices, and rial depreciation; spreads to university students and other cities.[1][2][4][6]