Protests Spread Across Iran for Third Day After Currency Hits Record Low
Protests and strikes in Iran are escalating for a third consecutive day as citizens react to soaring inflation and the drastic devaluation of the Iranian currency. The unrest, which began in Tehran, has now extended to multiple cities, fueled by public outcry over economic hardships.
Key Developments of the Protests
– Origin of Protests: The unrest ignited on Sunday when shopkeepers at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar initiated a strike after the Iranian rial plummeted to a record low against the US dollar on the open market.
– Expansion Across Cities: Verified footage by BBC Persian revealed demonstrations occurring in various cities including:
– Karaj
– Hamedan
– Qeshm
– Malard
– Isfahan
– Kermanshah
– Shiraz
– Yazd
– Police Response: Authorities responded with tear gas in an effort to disperse the crowds, indicating rising tensions.
Government Response to Unrest
– Acknowledgment of Protests: The Iranian government acknowledged the protests, stating it would listen to the voices of the demonstrators, even if faced with criticism.
– Leadership Changes: President Masoud Pezeshkian revealed via X that he instructed the interior minister to engage in dialogue with representatives of the protesters, seeking to address their issues. He also accepted the resignation of central bank governor Mohammadreza Farzin, appointing former economy and finance minister Abdolnasser Hemmati as his successor.
Student Participation and Anti-Government Sentiment
University students have joined the demonstrations, loudly expressing their discontent with anti-government slogans like Death to the dictator, a direct reference to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who embodies the ultimate authority in Iran. Some protesters voiced support for Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah, chanting, Long live the Shah.
International Reactions and Support for Protesters
– Solidarity from Exiled Leaders: Reza Pahlavi, now living in exile in the US, expressed his solidarity with the protesters through X, proclaiming, I am with you. Victory is ours because our cause is just and because we are united. He further noted, As long as this regime remains in power, the country’s economic situation will continue to deteriorate.
– U.S. Support: The U.S. State Department’s Persian-language account on X praised the protesters’ courage, standing by those seeking dignity and a better future amid years of economic mismanagement, indicating strong international support for the movement.
Context of Ongoing Tensions
The situation in Iran is further complicated by international dynamics. A recent meeting in Florida between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu included discussions about Iran. Trump highlighted the country’s turbulent economic state, remarking, They’ve got a lot of problems: tremendous inflation, their economy is bust. While he avoided committing to regime change, he indicated the possibility of supporting military operations against Iran if it pursued its ballistic missile or nuclear programs.
Conclusion
The protests across Iran reflect deep-rooted dissatisfaction with the economic situation after the rial’s record low against the dollar. With increasing participation from various sectors of society and growing international support, the situation is evolving rapidly. As tensions heighten, the long-term implications for Iran and its government remain uncertain.