Deadly Protests Enter Fifth Day Across Iran Amid Nationwide Shutdown
Protests across Tehran and multiple provinces in Iran entered their fifth day, marked by clashes between demonstrators and security forces. A nationwide shutdown was observed, with closures ordered across 21 provinces by President Masoud Pezeshkian. The government attributed the shutdown to extreme cold weather and also offered talks with merchants and unions concerning what it described as legitimate demands.
The unrest, which began on Sunday, was initially sparked by inflation, unemployment, and currency depreciation. It has since expanded beyond bazaars to include students and the broader public across the country.
Authorities confirmed at least one death during the protests. Rights groups and Iranian media reported additional fatalities, and Reuters cited multiple deaths based on such reports. The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) claimed that two protesters were killed by direct fire in Lordegan, with Fars News Agency also reporting two deaths there. Hengaw, a human rights organization, stated that protesters were killed by security forces, though Reuters could not independently verify these accounts.
In Lordegan, clashes intensified as police used tear gas to disperse crowds, and government buildings were targeted. Authorities reported that a Basij member was killed in Kuhdasht, but Hengaw disputed this claim.
In Fooladshahr, Isfahan province, a 37-year-old man was shot dead during overnight protests. Iran International verified his identity, and police confirmed the death without providing further details.
International responses included statements from the U.S. administration expressing support for the demonstrators. Maryam Rajavi of the NCRI called for regime change amidst the ongoing turmoil.
