Protests in Iran continue into their fifth day amid escalating unrest over rising living costs. Reports indicate multiple casualties, with two protesters killed during clashes in Loudegan and additional fatalities in Aznah and Koudasht. Videos on social media show confrontations between demonstrators and security forces, with some protesters calling for a change in leadership and a return to monarchy.
The protests, which began in Tehran among disgruntled shopkeepers reacting to the plummeting value of the currency, have spread to various cities and include university students. This wave of protests has been described as the most extensive since the 2022 riots triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini.
In response to the unrest, authorities declared a public holiday, ostensibly for energy conservation, but many view it as an effort to contain the protests. While President Masoud Pezeshkian pledged to address the “legitimate demands” of the protesters, Attorney General Mohammad Mobahedi Azad cautioned against destabilizing actions, promising a strong response to protect order.
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