Coup fears in Iran as protests against Khamenei intensify, Gen Z enthusiasm rises with Trump’s stance; 8 dead so far
Tehran (The Uttam Hindu): The situation in Iran continues to deteriorate as large-scale protests against the government intensify across the country. Iran is facing a deep economic crisis that has severely affected daily life. Rising inflation, a falling currency, and growing unemployment have pushed public anger onto the streets.
The protests, which began on December 28, have gradually spread nationwide. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), shops are shut in several cities, and large crowds are gathering on the streets, raising slogans against the government. Incidents of arson have also been reported. So far, at least eight protesters have been killed, while dozens have been taken into custody.
Initially, shopkeepers in Tehran’s markets went on strike to protest worsening economic conditions. The movement soon expanded to other cities. Reports indicate unrest at more than 100 locations across 46 cities in 22 provinces. Security has been tightened in major cities such as Mashhad, Zahedan, Qazvin, Hamadan, and Tehran, with clashes reported between security forces and protesters in several areas.
Meanwhile, a statement by US President Donald Trump has brought international attention to the crisis. Trump warned that if Iran’s government uses violence against peaceful protesters, the United States will not remain silent. In a post on the social media platform Truth Social, he said the US is fully alert and ready to act if necessary.
While Trump’s remarks have angered several Iranian political leaders, they have generated enthusiasm among the youth, especially Gen Z protesters. Iranian human rights activist Masih Alinejad strongly criticized President Masoud Pezeshkian, accusing the government of trying to conceal violence by security forces and divert attention by opposing foreign interference.
Alinejad wrote on social media that when those in power order bullets to be fired at people and so-called reformists justify it, the real problem becomes clear. She accused the president of prioritizing the protection of power over the safety of Iranian citizens.
Protests continued late into Friday night in several parts of Tehran, including Naziabad, Sattar Khan, Narmak, and Tehranpars. In some areas, reports emerged of protesters removing flags of the Islamic Republic.
The most serious situation was reported from Azna city in Lorestan province, where videos of arson and gunfire went viral on social media. Protesters were seen chanting slogans such as “Shame on you.” According to Fars News Agency, protesters in Lordegan pelted stones at government buildings, prompting police to respond with tear gas and make multiple arrests.
The primary cause of the unrest is Iran’s worsening economic condition. The Iranian rial has fallen to a record low against the US dollar, with one dollar reportedly reaching 1.42 million rials. Official data shows inflation stood at 42.2 percent in December. Food prices have risen by up to 72 percent over the past year, while the cost of medicines and healthcare has increased by nearly 50 percent. These conditions have deepened public distress, and there are no immediate signs of the situation calming down.