Iran Currency Collapse Protests 2026: Deadly Clashes Leave Three Dead

Iran's streets are burning again as the national currency hits rock bottom. Three people are reportedly dead after five days of escalating unrest triggered by a dramatic currency collapse. Despite the government's attempt to quell the demonstrations by declaring a nationwide bank holiday, the anger over the soaring cost of living shows no signs of cooling down.

The Toll of Iran Currency Collapse Protests

In the city of Lordegan, southwestern Iran, at least two people were killed during clashes between security forces and protesters. While the semi-official Fars news agency didn't specify the victims' identities, the human rights group Hengaw identified them as protesters shot by security personnel.

The violence isn't isolated. In Kudasht, a member of the security forces linked to the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) was reportedly killed on Wednesday night. State media also reported that 13 police officers were injured by stone-throwing. Protesters, however, dispute these claims, stating the victim was one of their own, killed by state forces.

From Economic Despair to Political Demands

What began on Sunday as a strike by Tehran shopkeepers has rapidly evolved. Protesters are now chanting against the country's clerical rulers and the supreme leader. President Masoud Pezeshkian has promised to listen to "legitimate demands," but the judiciary has warned of a "decisive response" to any instability.