Iran Protests 2026 Erupt Across 17 Provinces Amid Economic Collapse

Even the state's most loyal strongholds are turning their backs. Protests have broken out in at least 17 of Iran's 31 provinces, presenting the largest challenge to the clerical establishment since 2022. Analysis by BBC Verify has geolocated footage from over 50 towns and cities, suggesting a scale of unrest that likely exceeds official reports.

Economic Despair Triggers Iran Protests 2026

The wave of anger began on December 28, 2025, following a sharp devaluation of the Iranian rial against the dollar. What started as frustration over mismanagement and corruption has rapidly transformed into an anti-state movement. Protesters are now chanting slogans against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with some even calling for the return of the Pahlavi dynasty. Notably, the unrest has reached Qom and Mashhad, cities traditionally known for their deep loyalty to the Islamic Republic.

Escalating Violence and Human Rights Concerns

While the initial response was somewhat restrained, security forces have ramped up the use of force since Khamenei publicly labeled the demonstrators as 'rioters.' Human rights group HRANA reports that at least 35 people have been killed so far. Verified footage from Ilam city shows officers firing toward a hospital, leading President Ebrahim Raisi's administration to order a formal investigation into the incident.