At least 16 people have been killed in Iran during a week of protests over rising inflation, according to rights groups, as demonstrations spread across the country and led to clashes with security forces.
Reports of deaths and detentions varied among sources, including state media and independent rights groups.
The protests, which began a week ago, are the most significant in three years. They come amid an economic crisis, renewed international sanctions, and increased domestic and foreign pressure on the government.
Kurdish rights group Hengaw reported 17 fatalities since the unrest began. HRANA, a network of activists, reported at least 16 deaths and 582 arrests.
The most intense confrontations have occurred in western provinces, but demonstrations have also taken place in Tehran, central cities, and Baluchistan province in the south.
In Qom, a conservative Shiite religious center, two people were reported dead in the unrest, including one who authorities say was killed by the premature detonation of an explosive device he was assembling, according to the provincial governor.
HRANA and the state-affiliated Tasnim news agency said authorities have detained the administrator of online platforms calling for protests.
The demonstrations began with shopkeepers and bazaar traders and soon involved students and residents of provincial cities. Some participants have chanted slogans against the country’s clerical leadership.
Iran’s inflation rate has remained above 36% since March, and the rial has lost about half its value against the U.S. dollar, contributing to growing public frustration.
The government has faced pressure from international sanctions, particularly over its nuclear program, and has struggled with nationwide shortages of water and electricity. Global financial institutions forecast a recession in 2026.
Authorities have responded by offering to engage with protesters while taking stronger action against what they characterize as unrest. On Saturday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said officials would be willing to talk but added, “rioters should be put in their place.”
President Donald Trump signaled U.S. support for the demonstrators, stating Friday, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go,” though he did not elaborate on potential actions. Iranian officials responded with warnings against U.S. interference, and Khamenei said Iran “will not yield to the enemy.”
