Iran protests continue into eighth day amid economic strain
Seventeen universities are participating in the ongoing wave of unrest, which continues despite heightened security measures aimed at suppressing gatherings. At least 20 people have died during the protests, including a member of law enforcement, with victims ranging from 16 to 45 years old and including students, laborers, and ordinary citizens.
In addition, at least 51 individuals have been injured, mostly from pellets and plastic bullets fired by security forces. Reports also confirm that a lawyer, Nasser Rezaei Ahangarany, was beaten by security forces during protests in Khorramabad on Jan. 3. Other incidents, such as demonstrations in Malekshahi, left at least 30 people injured.
Authorities have arrested at least 990 people since the start of the protests, though the actual number is believed to be higher. Among those detained are students, civil society members, and over a dozen minors aged 15 to 17. Arrests have taken place in multiple cities, often during street clashes or linked to social media activity. Mass detentions occurred in Yazd, Isfahan, Kermanshah, Shiraz, and Behbahan, with many detainees transferred to local prisons.
The unrest was sparked by soaring inflation, declining purchasing power, market volatility, and widespread job insecurity. Many protesters’ slogans focus on economic hardship, governance criticism, and civil freedoms rather than a single issue. “Protests have not been limited to major urban centers,” the report notes, highlighting participation from smaller towns and diverse segments of the population.
International responses have emerged as the situation escalates. The European Union’s External Action Service expressed concern over “reports of deaths and injuries,” urging Iranian authorities to “exercise maximum restraint” and resolve public grievances through dialogue.
Amnesty International Australia called for an “immediate halt to violence,” the release of political prisoners, and an end to the use of lethal force. The Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims also expressed solidarity with protesters.
Iranian authorities, meanwhile, have defended their actions. Police Chief Ahmadreza Radan said “targeted arrests of protest leaders” have begun, accusing detainees of incitement and receiving foreign currency. Some government officials and members of parliament blamed foreign interference for the unrest.
Civil society organizations have pushed back, emphasizing citizens’ rights. The Workers’ House of Iran stated that people have “the right to protest their livelihood and economic conditions,” describing the right as “legitimate and legal.” Teacher associations and bar groups have echoed this support, citing inflation and policy failures as root causes of the unrest.
HRANA continues to monitor and verify information, promising further updates as the protests evolve.
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