Anti-government protests are sweeping across all 31 provinces in Iran, presenting a significant challenge to the regime. This wave of unrest is particularly notable due to its unprecedented scale, driven largely by economic frustration.
The protests began about two weeks ago in Tehran’s bazaars, sparked by soaring inflation. Prices for essential goods like cooking oil and chicken have skyrocketed, with some items disappearing from store shelves. Many shopkeepers, known as bazaaris, are a traditional support base for the Islamic Republic, making their participation in these protests particularly striking.
In response to the unrest, Iranian authorities have imposed a nationwide communications blackout, isolating the country from the outside world. This has hampered efforts to understand the full extent of the violence. Reports indicate that over 500 protesters, including several children, have died, while nearly 10,700 have been arrested, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency.
The government’s attempts to diffuse anger with cash handouts of approximately $7 a month have failed. Meanwhile, Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, continues to label protesters as “rioters” and foreign agents, threatening harsher crackdowns.
Historically, the bazaaris have played crucial roles in Iran’s political landscape. Their loyal support helped bring about the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Today, however, their discontent signals a major shift in public sentiment.
Experts note that amid rising poverty and ethnic disparities, chants of “Death to Khamenei” reverberate through the crowds. This protest’s intensity reflects a broader societal fatigue. Dina Esfandiary, a Middle East expert from Bloomberg Economics, expressed that the current situation feels different: “It’s reached a boiling point,” she stated, suggesting significant change might be pending for the Islamic Republic.
Recent data shows that the regime’s grip on power is diminishing, especially after recent regional conflicts. Violence in Gaza and spilled over tensions with Israel have stretched the Iranian regime’s influence. “The Islamic Republic has lost much of its previous authority,” Keshavarzian notes. He further opines that the only weapon left in the regime’s arsenal is force, highlighting a deep-seated mistrust among the populace.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has attempted to bridge the gulf by promoting economic reforms and attributing the unrest to foreign “terrorists.” Yet, many citizens see through these tactics, pointing to systemic corruption and ineffective governance as root causes of their suffering.
The protests come at a time of heightened tension between Iran and the U.S. President Trump has indicated military responses if protesters are harmed, reflecting his administration’s ongoing interest in the region.
As the situation develops, the world watches closely, recognizing that these protests could reshape not only Iran but also its relations with global powers.
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