Sun Jan 04 11:40:17 UTC 2026: ## Iran Sees Sporadic Protests Over Economic Woes Turn Political, Sparking Clashes
Tehran, Iran – Sporadic protests initially triggered by economic grievances are continuing in Tehran and other Iranian cities, with some demonstrations evolving to include political demands, according to local media reports. Clashes have intensified, particularly in western regions of the country, resulting in casualties.
The protests began on December 28 with shopkeepers striking over economic concerns. However, over the past week, they have expanded in both size and scope, with protesters now voicing political discontent.
While the demonstrations have not yet reached a nationwide scale, Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi reported from Tehran on Sunday that protests are occurring “from time to time and sporadically” in various cities, including Tehran, Kazerun, and others. He noted that at least 14 people, including security forces, have been killed since the unrest began.
The semiofficial Fars news agency described Saturday evening’s protests in Tehran as “limited,” involving groups of 50 to 200 young people. Slogans such as “death to the dictator” were reportedly shouted, with minor incidents including stone throwing and burning of rubbish bins.
According to Fars, the situation in Tehran “contrasted with an intensification of violence and organised attacks in other regions, notably the country’s west.” In Malekshahi, a county in western Iran with a significant Kurdish population, a member of the security forces was killed during clashes, with reports claiming “rioters attempted to storm a police station.” Two assailants were reportedly killed in that incident.
While state-run media have downplayed the extent of the demonstrations, videos circulating on social media show protests in cities including Isfahan and Shiraz.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed the protests on Saturday, acknowledging the economic problems but drawing a line between protesters and “rioters.” “We talk to protesters,” he stated, adding, “But there is no benefit to talking to rioters. Rioters must be put in their place.”
Al Jazeera’s Asadi said Khamenei’s statement recognized the legitimacy of protests rooted in economic hardship but also warned against violence, suggesting the government would not tolerate further escalation. The situation remains fluid, and potential for further unrest remains high.
First Piper 