Iran Protests: Demonstrations have unfolded across Iran since late December 2025, driven by economic hardships and the plummeting value of the rial; some citizens have taken to the streets in Tehran and Mashhad. Protesters are demanding political and economic reforms, while others have openly challenged the supremacy of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Government Crackdown Intensifies
The Iranian regime has reacted with growing brutality. Security forces around the country have deployed live ammunition, tear gas and mass detentions to suppress the unrest, and a blackout of the internet and phones has been imposed to restrict communications. Authorities have branded many protesters as “enemies” and vowed even more severe repression, with judicial officials drawing an equivalence between protest actions and crimes punishable by death.
Trump Throws Support Behind Protesters
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed his support for the Iranian Protesters, tweeting that Iran will face “big trouble” should they resort to the suppression of the peaceful rallies. Moreover, he reiterated that the “US stands ready to help” Iran. In the same context, President Trump has reportedly been briefed on the military measures that the country would ideally employ through airstrikes in Iran.
Khamenei Appears in Defiant
Despite the mounting pressure, Supreme Leader Khamenei has denounced the protests, suspecting the protesters of acting upon the directions of other countries, while also criticising Trump’s statements. He has further pledged to resist the attempts, as the whole episode was considered an assault on the sovereignty of the country, rather than complaints against the government.
Domestic & Regional Risks for Iran
Iran Protests: This is happening at a time when Iran has been facing extreme economic hardships, with both inflation and unemployment levels exacerbating public resentment. If this trend continues, it could potentially disrupt Tehran’s political stability, according to analysts.
