Waves of Protest Engulf Iran: Unrest Spreads Across 17 Provinces

Thu Jan 08 2026 15:57:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A surge of anti-government protests in Iran has erupted, marking the largest challenge to the clerical establishment since 2022, with recent unrest reported in at least 17 provinces. Citizens express discontent over economic mismanagement amid violent crackdowns from security forces.

Since December 28, Iran has witnessed rapid anti-government protests in over 17 provinces, fueled by anger towards economic mismanagement and currency devaluation. The unrest has escalated with violence, with reports of fatalities among both protesters and security forces, leading to heightened tensions as authorities grapple with widespread dissent.

Waves of Protest Engulf Iran: Unrest Spreads Across 17 Provinces

Protests have broken out in at least 17 of Iran's 31 provinces, presenting the largest challenge to the country's clerical establishment since 2022, according to a BBC Verify and BBC Persian analysis. This wave of discontent, which initially erupted in Tehran, has rapidly spread across the nation since the end of December, following significant devaluation of the Iranian currency.

Footage verified by BBC shows demonstrators in over 50 towns and cities, including places traditionally loyal to the regime, signaling widespread dissatisfaction. Additionally, reports indicate protests in at least 11 other provinces, suggesting that the unrest could be even broader than anticipated.

Account of the protests reveals that the issues at stake extend beyond economic grievances to fundamental anti-government sentiments. Many protesters chant against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other symbols of the current regime. The situation continues to evolve, with authorities imposing an increasingly violent crackdown in response to the unrest.

Despite the government's attempts to quell dissent through force, experts warn that such tactics could intensify discontent among citizens and pose a risk to the loyalty of security forces. Reports indicate serious clashes, with multiple fatalities confirmed in recent events. The situation remains sensitive, with international observers closely monitoring the developments in Iran.