Mass Protests Sweep Iran Amid Economic and Political Crisis

Large crowds have marched through Tehran and several other Iranian cities in what is being described as the biggest anti-government protests in years. Verified videos show demonstrators chanting slogans against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and calling for political change, with rallies reported in more than 100 cities nationwide, BBC reported.

The protests, now in their 12th day, were sparked by anger over the collapse of the Iranian currency and soaring inflation. Human rights groups report dozens of deaths and thousands of arrests, though figures vary. A nationwide internet blackout was also reported, restricting information from inside the country.

The unrest is being compared to the major protests of 2009 and 2022, highlighting growing public frustration over Iran’s economic and political crisis.