Iran Protests Economic Crisis 2026: 14 Dead as Unrest Spreads to Tehran

What started as a quiet strike in the bazaars has turned into a loud cry for change. Since December 28, 2025, a wave of protests has swept across Iran, fueled by a plummeting rial and unbearable living costs. According to Reuters, the demonstrations have now evolved from economic grievances into direct political challenges against the leadership.

Iran Protests Economic Crisis 2026 and the Toll of Unrest

The situation is rapidly deteriorating in the country's west. In Malekshahi, a county with a significant Kurdish population, clashes turned deadly when rioters reportedly attempted to storm a police station. Khamenei confirmed on Saturday that 14 people, including members of the security forces, have been killed since the unrest began. While Tehran remains tense with groups of 50 to 200 young people gathering sporadically, the violence in the provinces is intensifying.

The Supreme Leader's Warning

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei broke his silence with a dual-track message. He acknowledged the legitimacy of economic concerns but drew a hard line against political dissent. "Officials must talk to protesters," he stated, but added that "rioters must be put in their place." This distinction suggests that while the government might offer some economic concessions, it's ready to use force against those chanting political slogans.