Deadly Protests Over Economic Crisis Erupt in Iran
In a wave of widespread protests fueled by Iran's deepening economic crisis, the country has witnessed several fatalities, including protesters and a member of the Revolutionary Guard. The unrest, which began on Sunday in Tehran, has since spread to various other parts of the country, marking the most significant demonstrations since the large national mobilizations three years ago.
Background
The protests reportedly took root in response to soaring inflation, high prices, and economic stagnation. Triggered by the national currency's extreme volatility, the demonstrations have escalated into deadly clashes between protesters and security forces. Tehran merchants initiated the protests after the rial hit a record low of about 1.44 million to the dollar, compared with 860,000 a year ago.
Casualties Amidst the Protests
State-affiliated media outlets and various international news sources have confirmed multiple fatalities during the protests. A 21-year-old volunteer from the Revolutionary Guard is among those reported dead, with the deputy governor of Western Lorestan province blaming his death on demonstrators.
The Fars news agency reported two civilians killed in fresh clashes between security forces and protesters in the city of Lordegan, while Al Jazeera English reported at least six protesters and a member of the security forces killed during the demonstrations.
There have been conflicting reports on the total number of casualties, with sources indicating anywhere from two to six protesters killed.
International Reactions and Implications
Iran's unrest has drawn international attention, with Israel's Mossad spy agency openly endorsing the protests. Go out into the streets together. The time has come. We are with you,
Mossad stated on its Farsi-language Twitter account, claiming its agents are embedded with the protesting crowds.
The protests have also been backed by opposition groups like the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). The Fox News report stated that the NCRI confirmed protests and street clashes continued Thursday morning in Tehran and several other cities.
Current Status
As Iran grapples with its worsening economic situation, the protests have increasingly turned violent. Witnesses and videos circulating on social media appear to show protesters lying motionless on the ground after security forces opened fire.
The Iranian authorities have acknowledged economic problems while vowing a decisive response
to destabilization. Meanwhile, the deputy governor of Western Lorestan province has called for dialogue on grievances.
The situation remains fluid with protests and clashes reported across Tehran and multiple provincial cities. As the country faces its worst unrest since 2022, the world watches closely to see how the situation will unfold.