Economic Crisis Sparks Largest Protests in Iran Since 2022
Protests across Iran have entered their fourth day, marking the largest demonstrations since the 2022 Mahsa Amini protests. These protests are driven by worsening living conditions and a sharp collapse of the Iranian currency.
The Iranian rial has fallen to 1.42 million per US dollar, a decrease of more than 56% over six months. Inflation and food prices have surged, with food prices rising by approximately 72%. Economic sanctions combined with Iran's reliance on imports have exacerbated inflation, as sanctions limit access to frozen funds and foreign exchange.
Participants in the protests include Isfahan textile merchant Alborz, students, and traders. The unrest began in Tehran and has spread nationwide, resulting in paralyzed campuses and closed shops. Security forces have clashed with protesters, confiscating identification cards, with some reports of beatings and arrests, and unverified claims of pellet injuries.
Protest slogans such as "death to the dictator" and "woman, life, freedom" reflect grievances that extend beyond economic issues to demands concerning governance.
In response, Iran's government has seen President Masoud Pezeshkian call for dialogue and peaceful measures, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned against sedition and pledged to confront threats.
The situation has an international dimension as US President Donald Trump hinted at possible strikes on Iran. Meanwhile, Iran has denied uranium enrichment claims amid broader regional tensions, including a twelve-day war with Israel in June.
