Protests in Iran have sharply intensified, turning into a nationwide movement against the country’s worsening economy. The unrest began on December 28 with a shutdown of Tehran’s historic Bazaar. Since then, it has spread rapidly across the country.

A combination of internet shutdowns, arrests, and a rising death toll has further fueled public anger. Protesters are openly challenging Iran’s clerical leadership as the economy continues to struggle and the rial loses value.

Biggest Protests in Two Weeks

On Thursday, Iran witnessed its largest anti-government demonstrations in nearly two weeks. The protests marked a major escalation in the standoff between ordinary citizens and the ruling establishment.

Anger over inflation, job losses, and the collapsing currency pushed thousands into the streets across multiple regions.

Death Toll Continues to Rise

At least 42 people have died in the protests between December 28, 2025, and January 8, 2026. The victims include 29 civilians who were protesting, eight security personnel, and five children and teenagers under 18.

Another rights group said that 13 protesters were killed in a single day on Wednesday, highlighting the growing intensity of the crackdown.

Massive Rallies Grip Tehran and Other Cities

Large crowds gathered in Tehran, with videos showing packed roads and loud anti-government slogans circulating widely on social media. One of the biggest gatherings took place on Ayatollah Kashani Boulevard in northwest Tehran.

Protests also erupted in other cities. Images showed demonstrators in Abadan in western Iran, while reports suggested unrest in Mashhad as well.

Some social media posts claimed protesters chased security forces and set government buildings on fire during demonstrations in Tehran and Mashhad on Thursday night. However, these claims could not be independently verified.

Protests Spread Across Provinces

Demonstrations were reported in at least 46 cities across 21 provinces. Market shutdowns were also seen in Kurdish regions. Cities in Kurdistan, West Azerbaijan, Kermanshah, and Ilam provinces joined strikes, signaling widening resistance beyond major urban centers.

Arrests and Alleged Forced Confessions

Authorities intensified arrests as protests expanded. Around 60 more people were detained on Thursday alone. Since December 28, more than 2,277 people have been arrested nationwide. Among them are at least 166 minors and 48 university students.

The report also alleged that state media aired 45 forced confessions since the protests began, raising concerns over human rights violations.

Nationwide Internet Blackout

Iran imposed a nationwide internet blackout as protests surged. Internet monitoring groups said live data showed severe disruptions across the country.

“The incident follows a series of escalating digital censorship measures targeting protests across the country and hinders the public's right to communicate at a critical moment,” the watchdog said.

Exiled Prince Condemns Communication Shutdown

Exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi strongly criticised the government for cutting off communication. He accused authorities of shutting down the internet and attempting to jam satellite signals to silence dissent.

He urged European leaders to back protesters and called on them to follow US President Donald Trump’s approach in “supporting the people of Iran” and “holding the regime to account”.

Trump Issues Fresh Warning to Iran

US President Donald Trump issued another strong warning to Iran on Thursday. He threatened serious consequences if Iranian authorities escalate violence.

Trump said the United States would respond forcefully if the regime “start killing people”, warning Washington would “hit them very hard”.