Sporadic protests in Tehran as clashes reported in Iran's west

"Protests fuelled by economic duress spiral into political ones in some cases as they spread to different cities. Sporadic protests have broken out in the Iranian capital, Tehran, and other cities, according to local media, which also report intensifying clashes in the west of the country. The demonstrations kicked off on December 28 when shopkeepers staged a strike over economic concerns, but a week later, they have spread in size and scope as protesters are also making political demands."

"From time to time and sporadically, we witness protests, such as last night in Tehran, Kazerun and other cities, Khamenei said on Saturday, adding that 14 people, including security forces, have been killed since the demonstrations started. There might be further escalations if the government cannot come up with concrete and practical actions. Protests on Saturday evening in Tehran were described as limited by the semiofficial Fars news agency, which said they were generally made up of groups of 50 to 200 young people."

Street protests that began as a December 28 shopkeepers strike over economic grievances have expanded into wider political demonstrations across multiple Iranian cities. Sporadic unrest has appeared in Tehran districts and other regions, with some areas experiencing intensified clashes and organised attacks. Authorities report 14 deaths including security personnel and warn of possible further escalation if no concrete government actions follow. Semiofficial reports describe Tehran gatherings as limited groups of 50 to 200 young people chanting slogans such as "death to the dictator" and engaging mainly in stone throwing and setting rubbish bins alight. Violence is sharper in western counties including Malekshahi.

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