2025 Iran Protests Reflect Economic Crisis and Growing Demands for Change

Protests across Iran began in late December 2025 amid worsening economic conditions in the country. Rising inflation increased the cost of basic goods, while the Iranian rial fell to a record low of approximately 1.45 million rials per U.S. dollar, making daily life increasingly difficult for many citizens. 

The demonstrations initially began with shopkeepers and retailers in Tehran who were protesting rising prices and operating costs. Soon, the protests spread to major cities like Isfahan, Shiraz, and Mashhad. While early demonstrations focused primarily on economic concerns. Protestors later began chanting political slogans such as “Death to the Dictator” and “Long live the Shah,” signaling broader demands for political change. 

Rising prices have had a significant impact on workers and small business owners, with many families struggling to afford food and other necessities. Iranians living abroad have also expressed concern for relatives inside the country. 

As demonstrations kept expanding, pressure on the Iranian government increased, drawing attention from international news organizations and human rights groups. Women, especially, have played a visible role in the protests. 

Unlike the 2022 demonstrations, which centered on hijab laws, the 2025-26 protests have focused more heavily on economic fairness and equal treatment. Women are leading strikes at factories and schools, sectors where rising costs and labor conditions have had a strong impact. 

Young people have also been active in organizing demonstrations, using technology to communicate, despite repeated internet shutdowns imposed by the government. Oil workers have stopped working as well, which has not only made the protests stronger than before but also affected the government’s main source of exports and revenue. 

In response to unrest, the government has restricted internet access nationwide to limit the spread of videos and information. Human rights organizations report that thousands of people have been injured or killed since the protests began, and tens of thousands have been arrested. The protests have also raised concerns about minority communities. 

Iran is home to approximately 8,500 Jewish residents, and during periods of political instability, minority groups often feel particularly vulnerable. In Jan. 2026, several Jewish individuals were reportedly detained. Jewish community leaders in Iran have historically expressed public support for the government as a means of protecting their community. 

Israeli officials have largely avoided public statements on the protests, citing concerns that outspoken support could be used by Iranian authorities to justify increased repression. 

Since the start of 2026, human rights groups estimate that more than 6,000 people have died during the unrest. Developments in Iran continue to influence international relations and discussions around human rights. 

As protests persist, the situation highlights the broader consequences of economic instability and political repression, both within Iran and beyond its borders.