Tehran, Iran – January 5, 2026 – Protests in Iran have continued for an eighth consecutive day, spreading to at least 222 locations across 78 cities in 26 provinces, primarily driven by severe economic hardships including surging inflation, currency depreciation, and declining purchasing power. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), a U.S.-based rights group monitoring the unrest, reported these figures in its latest update, noting participation from diverse groups such as laborers, students, and ordinary citizens.
The demonstrations, which began in late December 2025 with bazaar merchants striking over the plummeting value of the Iranian rial, have evolved to include broader criticisms of governance and calls for civil freedoms. Slogans have focused on livelihood issues, with protests extending beyond major cities to smaller towns. Seventeen universities have seen student-led actions, alongside labor strikes and street gatherings, despite increased security presence.
According to HRANA and corroborated by outlets like Anadolu Agency and Iran International, at least 20 people have been killed since the protests began, including one member of the security forces. The victims, aged 16 to 45, comprise students, workers, and civilians. At least 51 others have been injured, many from pellet guns and plastic bullets fired by authorities. Separate reports from the Kurdish rights group Kurdpa noted around 30 injuries in Malekshahi alone. HRANA also documented the beating of lawyer Nasser Rezaei Ahangarany by security forces in Khorramabad on January 3.
Arrests have reached at least 990, though HRANA warns the actual figure is likely higher due to restrictions on reporting. Detainees include students, activists, and over a dozen minors aged 15-17. Mass detentions occurred in cities like Yazd, Isfahan, Kermanshah, Shiraz, and Behbahan, with some linked to social media posts inciting protests. Many have been transferred to prisons.
Iranian officials have responded with targeted operations. Police Chief Ahmadreza Radan announced the start of arrests against alleged protest leaders, accusing some of receiving foreign funds for incitement. State media and officials have blamed external interference for escalating the unrest.
The economic triggers are well-documented: Iran's rial has lost significant value, with inflation exceeding 40% and predictions of recession amid reimposed sanctions over the nuclear program, power shortages, and policy challenges. Global bodies like the IMF have highlighted these strains.
International responses have emphasized restraint. The European Union's External Action Service voiced concern over deaths and injuries, calling on authorities to show "maximum restraint" and engage in dialogue to address grievances. Amnesty International, including its Australian branch, demanded an immediate end to violence, the release of detainees, and cessation of lethal force. The Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims expressed solidarity with protesters.
Domestic voices have varied. The Workers’ House of Iran affirmed citizens' legitimate right to protest economic conditions, while teacher and bar associations criticized policy failures contributing to inflation.
HRANA continues verifying information amid ongoing unrest, pledging updates as events unfold. While some sources report lower casualty figures—around 16 deaths and 582 arrests—the spread and persistence indicate deep public frustration in a country facing multifaceted crises.
The protests mark the largest wave since 2022-2023, though not yet matching that scale. Security forces have deployed heavily, with reports of tear gas, live fire in some clashes, and internet disruptions in affected areas. As demonstrations persist into 2026, attention focuses on whether economic concessions or further suppression will prevail.
This unrest highlights layered grievances: immediate economic pain compounded by long-term issues like sanctions, mismanagement, and restricted freedoms. With participation from urban bazaars to provincial towns and universities, the movement reflects widespread discontent across societal segments.
