Tension Escalates In Iran As Protests Spread To Tenth Day With Clashes
Iran is experiencing its tenth consecutive day of widespread protests, driven by a severe economic crisis marked by spiralling inflation and a plummeting national currency. The unrest, which began amongst shopkeepers in Tehran's Grand Bazaar, has now expanded to cities including Abadan and Malekshahi, intensifying with clashes between protesters and security forces.
Eyewitness accounts and social media footage depict confrontations, with gas canisters reportedly used by protesters amidst heavy police deployment. Rights groups such as Hengaw and HRANA claim death tolls ranging from 25 to 29, including minors, and over a thousand arrests.
Iranian authorities have acknowledged economic hardships but attribute the unrest to foreign influences, reporting two security personnel deaths and over a dozen injuries. While President Masoud Pezeshkian has pledged reforms to stabilise the economy and protect purchasing power, including subsidy adjustments, the protests show signs of broadening beyond economic grievances to encompass political frustrations against the clerical leadership. The situation underscores the deep economic and social tensions gripping the nation.