Nationwide protests in Iran are escalating, significantly increasing pressure on the country’s theocratic regime. The protests, initially sparked by a struggling economy, have intensified since September due to renewed UN sanctions linked to Iran’s nuclear program. The Iranian rial has experienced a drastic decline, now trading at over 1.4 million rials to one U.S. dollar, highlighting the severe economic distress faced by citizens.
Protests Across Iran
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, over 340 protests have occurred in all 31 provinces of Iran. The reported death toll stands at least 38, with more than 2,200 arrests made. Limited access to information makes it challenging to assess the full scale and details of these demonstrations. State media has been largely silent, and journalists face significant restrictions.
Economic Crisis Fueling Discontent
The collapse of the rial has intensified an economic crisis in Iran. Prices for essential goods like meat and rice have skyrocketed, with inflation soaring to approximately 40%. The Iranian government’s recent policy changes regarding fuel prices have further burdened the populace, indicating potential future price hikes on essential commodities.
Historical Context of Protests
While the protests started in late December among merchants in Tehran, their focus quickly expanded. Initially centered on economic grievances, participants began voicing anti-government sentiments. This wave of unrest echoes earlier demonstrations sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, which galvanized public anger against the regime.
Deteriorating International Alliances
Iran’s “Axis of Resistance,” a coalition of allied nations and militant groups, has weakened amid ongoing conflicts. Israel’s military actions have severely impacted Palestinian groups, while Iran’s traditional allies, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis in Yemen, continue to face significant challenges. Although China remains a key importer of Iranian oil, it has not provided military assistance.
Nuclear Program Concerns
Internationally, worries persist about Iran’s nuclear program. Although Tehran claims its intentions are peaceful, officials have hinted at pursuing a nuclear weapon if necessary. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised alarms about Iran’s potential capacity to develop nuclear weapons, should it choose to weaponize its program.
Tension with the United States
Relations between Iran and the U.S. have soured since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which led to the establishment of the current theocratic government. The two nations have experienced cycles of hostility and tentative diplomacy. After the 2015 nuclear deal temporarily eased tensions, the U.S. withdrawal in 2018 reinstated sanctions and hostility.
As protests continue, the Iranian regime faces external and internal pressures that could reshape the landscape of the nation. Increased economic struggles and a demand for political accountability challenge the very foundation of the regime’s power.
