Iran is witnessing widespread protests amid a deepening economic crisis, with public anger rising over the sharp decline in the national currency. Demonstrations have been ongoing for the past four days as the Iranian rial continues to fall to record lows against the US dollar, fuelling soaring inflation and worsening living conditions. Security forces have been deployed across several cities, and multiple protesters have reportedly been arrested.
The protests began on Sunday after the rial’s steep depreciation intensified economic hardship for ordinary citizens. While the Iranian government has stated that peaceful protests are legally permitted, it has warned that violent acts will not be tolerated. Analysts suggest that the ongoing unrest could pose a potential challenge to the authority of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, although there are no immediate indications of him stepping down, given his strong support from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), security agencies, and religious institutions.
Speculation is also growing over the role of US President Donald Trump in the unfolding situation. US-Iran relations have remained strained over Iran’s nuclear programme, with American sanctions significantly impacting Iran’s economy. During Trump’s tenure, Washington pressured other countries to halt Iranian oil imports and imposed restrictions on Iranian banks, cutting them off from the global financial system and limiting access to international funds. These measures have gradually weakened Iran’s economic stability.
Experts believe that these policies indirectly contributed to the current unrest, with some allegations claiming that efforts are being made to destabilise Khamenei’s leadership. Tensions between Iran and the US continue over nuclear negotiations, further complicating the situation.
Adding to Iran’s challenges, the 2025 conflict between Iran and Israel reportedly damaged key defence systems and nuclear facilities. Statements by senior Israeli officials calling for Khamenei’s removal sparked controversy at the time. At 86, Khamenei is also reported to be facing health issues, and uncertainty over succession has triggered internal power struggles within Iran’s ruling establishment, further intensifying political and social instability.