Iran Rocked by Sweeping Protests Amid Economic Crisis, Anti-Regime Chants Erupt

• Iran faces widespread protests, initially sparked by a severe economic crisis with inflation over 42% and a collapsing rial, but quickly escalating to anti-regime demands.
• Demonstrations involve shopkeepers, students, and women's rights activists across multiple cities, chanting "death to the dictator" and "woman, life, freedom."
• Clashes between protesters and security forces have resulted in 7 reported deaths, damaged buildings, and 30 arrests, with authorities responding violently.
• Experts like Gissou Nia and Holly Dagres state the protests reflect deep dissatisfaction with the Iranian regime, viewing economic woes as a catalyst for systemic change.
• President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged protests and replaced the Central Bank governor, but security forces are aggressively suppressing the movement, indicating regime nervousness.

Why It Matters: Iran's protests, fueled by economic despair, reveal deep-seated anger and a growing demand for systemic regime change.