At least six people have died and 13 security personnel were injured during protests triggered by Iran's deepening economic crisis, according to state media reports. The clashes occurred in multiple cities across Lorestan Province between December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026, as public frustration over currency devaluation reached a boiling point.
The semi-official Fars news agency reported violent confrontations in Lordegan, Azna, and Kuhdasht, where protesters allegedly damaged government buildings and banks. Security forces claimed some demonstrators opened fire on police, leading to multiple arrests. The rial's value plummeted to 1.35 million per US dollar this week – a 65% decline since 2018 when the United States withdrew from the nuclear agreement and reimposed sanctions.
Lorestan Province Deputy Governor Saeid Pourali acknowledged the economic roots of the unrest during a state television interview, stating: "While peaceful demonstrations should be respected, vandalism undermines national unity." He attributed the crisis to what he called "unjust Western economic pressure."
President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the need for "genuine solidarity" in a Wednesday address, announcing plans for monetary reforms and direct dialogue with protest representatives. The president's social media post on December 29 highlighted ongoing efforts to stabilize purchasing power through banking system reforms.
Analysts suggest the protests reflect broader regional economic challenges, with Iran's inflation rate exceeding 40% this month. The government maintains that resolving sanction-related financial pressures remains its top priority for 2026.
