Iran Rocked by Biggest Protests in Three Years Amid Economic Crisis

• Iran faces its largest protests in three years, triggered by severe economic strain, currency devaluation, and surging inflation.
• Unrest began in Tehran on December 29, 2025, with merchants, quickly spreading to students and rural provinces.
• Protesters demand an end to clerical rule, free elections, and chant anti-government slogans, with some supporting the former monarchy.
• Government response combines outreach, like President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledging demands, with force from the Basij militia.
• The crisis is fueled by long-standing US and Western sanctions, regional tensions, and a history of similar economic-driven unrest.

Why It Matters: Iran faces widespread protests driven by a severe economic crisis and calls for political change, challenging the clerical rule.