Iran's Gen Z Rises: Protests Rock Nation Amid Economic Crisis, Target Khamenei

• Widespread protests across Iran, led by Gen Z, target Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the regime.
• Protests fueled by severe economic crisis: skyrocketing inflation, unemployment, and historic depreciation of the Iranian rial.
• Demonstrators chant "Death to the dictator" and "Mullahs, leave Iran," indicating a shift from economic grievances to political demands.
• Government responds with strict measures, including security forces, internet restrictions, and arrests, leading to casualties.
• US attributes protests to public anger over government failures, misallocation of funds, and neglect of basic issues.

Why It Matters: Iran faces its biggest protests since 2022, driven by economic woes and political anger against Khamenei.