Iran’s streets erupted into widespread unrest in early January 2026, as economic despair fueled protests demanding the overthrow of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Sparked by a merchant shutdown at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar on December 28, 2025, demonstrations spread to over 110 cities, with crowds chanting “Death to Khamenei,” “Long live the Shah,” and “This year is the year of blood—Seyyed Ali will be toppled.” Norway-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reports at least 36 deaths—including five minors and security personnel—over 2,000 arrests, and dozens injured by live fire and pellets since the uprising began.
The protests mark the most serious challenge to the regime since the 2022-2023 Mahsa Amini movement, blending economic fury with political defiance. With the rial crashing to 1.47 million per dollar, bazaar merchants—traditional regime allies—closed shops in Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and beyond, protesting inflation, unemployment, and corruption.
Spark and Spread of the Uprising
The wave ignited December 28 at Tehran’s Alaeddin Shopping Centre and Grand Bazaar, where shopkeepers shuttered amid soaring prices. Protesters scattered into alleys as police fired tear gas, but chants of “Freedom, Freedom” echoed defiance. By January 6—the tenth day—strikes paralyzed Shahrekord’s furniture market and Yazdanshahr, with youths blocking streets with fires against security forces.
Western Kurdish-Lor regions, including Malekshahi in Ilam Province, saw intense clashes. A protester was killed Tuesday by a bullet in Malekshahi; authorities raided hospitals for injured demonstrators. Social media footage captured crowds in Abadan chanting “This last day, the entire regime is the target.”
Regime’s Brutal Response and Casualties
Security forces, led by IRGC Brig. Gen. Ahmadreza Radan, deployed tear gas, stun grenades, and live rounds. Judiciary head Gholamhossein Mohseni-Eje’i warned of no leniency for “rioters,” blaming U.S. and Zionist “chaos.” HRANA documents 34 civilian deaths, two security personnel—including a policeman shot Tuesday—and over 1,200 confirmed arrests, likely higher.
At least 27 protesters killed since unrest began, five under 18; Norway-based Iranian Human Rights (IHRI) accuses forces of custody deaths. In Tehran, SSF blocked routes; protesters countered with fires and anti-regime slogans.
Historical Context and Evolving Slogans
Unlike 2009 Green Movement reform pleas, 2026 chants invert 1979 Revolution cries: “Death to the Dictator” targets Khamenei’s 36-year rule amid economic woes post-12-day Israel war. Nostalgia for Pahlavi monarchy surges with “Javid Shah” (Long live the Shah), echoing 2022 protests.
Roots trace to systemic failures: rial collapse, sanctions, and mismanagement. Protests hit universities like Sharif and Amirkabir, with students joining bazaaris.
Economic Triggers and Humanitarian Toll
Bazaars—economic hubs—struck over bankruptcy fears from currency freefall. Tehran’s Bouzarjomehri Bazaar saw brutal attacks; merchants vowed persistence. UN agencies warn of health crises; Amnesty details hospital raids crushing dissent.
Over 1,000 arrested nationwide; Ilam saw direct fire on crowds. Economic pressure drove traders to streets last month, now politicized.
Regime Rhetoric and Opposition Voices
Khamenei lashed at “rioters”; Radan threatened arrests anywhere. NCRI’s Maryam Rajavi hailed bazaar defiance as regime’s end sign. Protests smaller than 2022 but potent amid crisis.
International Reactions and Outlook
U.S., EU monitor; Israel notes regime vulnerability. Analysts predict escalation if rial sinks further; sustained mediation urged. Regional stability at risk as chants grow bolder. Dive deeper into the escalating Iran protests with full coverage from Times of India here.
Civilians demand change; joint patrols unlikely without reforms. Track developments via World News Section. This comprehensive analysis draws from HRANA data, eyewitness images, and global reports for factual depth.