Widespread Anti-Government Protests Erupt Across Iran

Thu Jan 08 2026 09:55:00 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Protests against the Iranian government have erupted in over half of the country's provinces, marking a significant challenge to the clerical establishment amid rising economic discontent.

Recent anti-government protests have surfaced in at least 17 of Iran's 31 provinces, spurred by economic struggles and a devaluation of the currency. Demonstrations began on December 28 and have rapidly expanded, displaying anti-state sentiments and challenges to the traditional loyalties of cities like Qom and Mashhad. Experts suggest the unrest reflects widespread dissatisfaction with systemic mismanagement and corruption. The government's response continues to evolve, with a mix of restraint and force as officials grapple with the unrest's implications.

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, a BBC Verify and BBC Persian analysis has found.

The BBC's analysis of protests includes only those for which we have verified video footage - the true number is almost certainly far higher. There are reports of protests in a further 11 provinces.

The wave of protests has spread rapidly across Iran since December 28, initiated by discontent over the sharp devaluation of the currency.

Verified footage shows demonstrations in over 40 towns and cities, including regions historically loyal to the state, indicating that the government's base of support is eroding under economic hardship.

Authorities have traditionally responded to such unrest with violence; during 2022 protests, over 550 people were allegedly killed. While police response initially appeared restrained, there are signs of a ramped-up security presence.

Experts say the current protests, which began over economic mismanagement, are now taking an anti-regime tone, with chants against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and calls for the ouster of the Islamic Republic evident.

The recent unrest is seen as a reflection of deep-seated resentment against systemic issues, including corruption and economic instability, challenging the state in an unprecedented manner.