Video: What's Driving Iran's Latest Wave of Deadly Protests?

Iran is witnessing its biggest wave of protests in three years as anger over a deepening economic crisis spills onto the streets. What began as demonstrations by shopkeepers and traders against soaring prices and a collapsing currency has grown into wider unrest, with some protesters demanding regime change and the removal of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

At least seven people have been killed in clashes reported across several regions, including Lordegan, Kuhdasht and Isfahan. Iran’s currency, the rial, has lost around half its value in 2025, while inflation remains above 40 percent. Major bazaars have shut down, and students and merchants have joined protests in multiple cities.

The unrest comes at a sensitive time for President Masoud Pezeshkian, who took office around 18 months ago, promising economic reforms. The crisis is worsened by Western sanctions, recent Israeli and US strikes, and regional tensions. Authorities have combined a security crackdown with offers of dialogue.