The protests have spread across the country and were triggered by a sharp increase in prices for goods and services. At the end of December, the exchange rate of the Iranian rial reached a record low of 1.39 million rials per dollar, contributing to rising discontent among the population. Inflation in December was 42.5%, adding to the economic hardships faced by citizens.
The head of the Central Bank of Iran, Mohammad Reza Farzin, resigned amid growing economic instability. In response to the protest sentiments, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged the Minister of Interior to pay attention to the "legitimate demands" of the demonstrators. Official authorities acknowledged the presence of protests and promised to establish a dialogue with their organizers.
"The government hears the voices of the people and understands that their protests are caused by pressure on the standard of living," noted government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani.
According to Fars news agency, a clash occurred between protesters and police in the city of Azna, located in Lorestan province, resulting in three deaths and 17 injuries. There are also reports of two killed in Lordegan, one dead in Kuhdasht, and another in Isfahan.
In his social media address, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that if Iranian authorities continue to use violence against peaceful protesters, America is ready to assist the demonstrators. "We are fully armed and ready to act," emphasized Trump.
