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Detailed Report on the Tenth Day of Protests: 36 Dead in 285 Demonstrations

Posted on January 6, 2026January 6, 2026 by . .

Children, Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

HRANA – Today marked the tenth consecutive day of protests and strikes by citizens across various cities in Iran. Reports indicate that violence by law enforcement and security forces has extended to medical centers as well, with some facilities subjected to intervention and attack. Over the past days, at least 285 locations in 92 cities across 27 provinces have witnessed protest gatherings. During these events, at least 2,076 citizens have been arrested, and at least 36 people have lost their lives, including 34 protesters and two members of security and law enforcement forces.

Protests that initially began with strikes and labor-related gatherings have entered a new phase on their tenth day. Alongside the continuation of some labor actions, reports point to the emergence of street demonstrations, the expansion of strikes by shopkeepers, and student protests at a number of universities. At the same time, there are reports that violence by law enforcement and security forces has extended to medical facilities, including attacks on hospitals.

Background of the Protests

The new wave of protests has emerged at a time when economic pressure on broad segments of society has reached a critical point, and clear signs of disruption to citizens’ daily livelihoods are evident. The continuous rise in exchange rates, chronic market instability, and the steady decline in purchasing power have darkened and destabilized the economic outlook for households and business owners alike, turning financial insecurity into a widespread experience.

In the days leading up to the start of these protests, reports indicated that currency rates had surpassed unprecedented levels, coinciding with a downturn in the capital market and an intensification of capital outflows. Analysts have interpreted this trend as a shift of liquidity toward safer markets such as gold and foreign currency, as well as a sign of declining public confidence in economic policies. The social consequences of this situation have included widespread closures or partial shutdowns of businesses, increasing difficulty for small enterprises to continue operating, and ultimately the spread of protests and strikes in various cities. These demonstrations are seen less as reactions to a single, temporary trigger and more as the result of the long-term accumulation of economic pressures and the ongoing erosion of hope for improvements in economic and social conditions.

Geography of the Protests

Based on updated and consolidated data, over the past 10 days at least 285 locations across Iran have witnessed protests, street gatherings, or labor strikes. These protest activities have been reported in 27 provinces nationwide, and at the same time, 22 universities have seen protest actions by students.

On the tenth day of the protests, demonstrations were held in the cities of Mashhad, Qazvin, Abdanan, Tehran, Shiraz, Bandar Abbas, Zanjan, Ilam, Malekshahi, Shahrekord, Yazdanshahr, Kavar, Asadabad, Babol, Marvdasht, and Borujerd.

One of the most significant protest focal points today in Iran was the demonstrations by bazaar merchants. Today, strikes took place in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, particularly concentrated in the main corridors, including the gold and currency market, the fabric market, and parts of the footwear and home appliances sections. A considerable number of business units were either fully or partially closed. Reports indicate that this strike emerged spontaneously, without any formal call, and that the main grievances of merchants were sharp currency fluctuations, the surge in gold prices, market stagnation, and the severe decline in purchasing power.

Following the closure of shops, the presence of security and law enforcement forces increased at the entrances to the bazaar and at intersections leading to it, and in some areas the formation of gatherings was prevented. Nevertheless, the strike caused a noticeable disruption to the bazaar’s daily activities and a reduction in customer traffic, and is being assessed as one of the most significant manifestations of the link between street protests and occupational discontent in Tehran.

Forms of Protest and Slogans

A review of verified reports indicates that the protests on the tenth day, similar to previous days, encompassed a wide range of demands. The content of slogans chanted during the gatherings was not limited solely to livelihood and economic issues, but also reflected criticism of governance structures, opposition to restrictions imposed on individual and social freedoms, and demands for justice.

Within the framework of its human rights mandate, HRANA focuses its reporting on slogans and demands that are directly related to violations of, or calls for, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and citizens’ civil rights. The persistence of these demands across various parts of the country points to the depth of public dissatisfaction and the overlap of economic, social, and political grievances within the context of the ongoing protests.

Conduct of Law Enforcement and Security Forces and Details of Violence

On the tenth day of the nationwide protests, reports received by HRANA indicate the continuation of a heavy security atmosphere in various cities across the country. These reports suggest that law enforcement and security forces have continued to use various repressive measures aimed at preventing the formation or expansion of protest gatherings.

Documented instances of the suppression of protests over the past day include the use of pellet guns, deployment of tear gas, and direct attacks on demonstrators.

At the same time, official accounts presented by some local authorities regarding the deaths do not fully align with eyewitness testimonies and unofficial reports. For this reason, details surrounding how these incidents occurred remain under review and subject to further verification.

Deaths and Injuries

According to HRANA’s updated data, at least 36 people have been confirmed killed during the past ten days of protests. Among them were four individuals under the age of 18, as well as two members of security and law enforcement forces. In addition, dozens of cases of injuries among protesting citizens have been recorded so far. According to reports, these injuries were mostly caused by pellet and plastic bullets.

Over the past 24 hours, HRANA has confirmed the identities of Mohammadreza Karami, (Lieutenant) Ehsan Aghajani, and Ali Golfroosh as individuals killed during the protests.

On the same date, Sadegh Parvizadeh, a wildlife photographer and videographer, announced in a video posted on his Instagram page that he had been struck in the face and eye by pellets during the protests. In part of the video, while showing samples of the pellets fired, he stated: “The person who shot me was a teenager under the age of 20. What occupies my mind is that killing a human being was really like hunting prey or a game to him.”

Tasnim News Agency, which is close to security institutions, reported that based on presented statistics, from the beginning of the protests up to last night, around 568 law enforcement personnel and 66 Basij forces were injured. The outlet further claimed that among them, two were injured by live ammunition, 152 by shotgun pellets, and 11 by knife attacks.

Security Forces’ Raids on Medical Centers: Attacks on Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam and Sina Hospital in Tehran

Amid developments in the nationwide protests in Iran, reports indicate that security forces have attacked and entered at least two medical centers in the cities of Ilam and Tehran, incidents that have sparked widespread domestic reactions and heightened concerns over violations of the security of medical facilities and patients’ rights.

Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ilam: Tear Gas in a Treatment Facility

According to published videos and reports, on Saturday evening, January 3, security forces surrounded Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam and attempted to arrest a number of protesters injured in Malekshahi who had been transferred there for treatment.

Reports indicate that patients’ families and some medical staff opposed the entry of security forces, leading to verbal and physical altercations. Subsequently, images were released showing tear gas being fired inside the hospital grounds and buildings, an action that created emergency conditions in treatment wards and caused alarm among patients and staff. Eyewitnesses stated that several patients experienced breathing difficulties following the dispersal of tear gas.

In response, the Ministry of Health issued a statement announcing that, by order of the Minister of Health, the matter was being examined “urgently,” emphasizing the need to safeguard the security of medical centers, patients, and healthcare workers. Additionally, by order of Masoud Pezeshkian, the Minister of Interior was tasked with following up on the incident and submitting a report. Meanwhile, Fars News Agency, which is close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, confirmed the presence of security forces at the hospital but claimed that some protesters had used the medical facility “to hide.”

Sina Hospital, Tehran: Arrests of the Injured and a Security Atmosphere

Parallel to the events in Ilam, reports published today, Tuesday, January 6, from Tehran indicate that security forces also entered Sina Hospital. According to these reports, a number of protesters injured during demonstrations and transferred to the hospital for treatment were arrested by security forces inside or around the hospital.

Eyewitnesses told media outlets that the presence of security forces on hospital grounds created an atmosphere of fear and disrupted the treatment process, with some families reportedly avoiding medical centers out of fear of arrest.

As of the time of this report, officials have not provided a clear explanation regarding the details of the operation at Sina Hospital.

Arrests

Over the ten days of protests, at least 2,076 protesting citizens have been arrested; however, the actual number of detainees is estimated to be significantly higher.

Of these, 878 individuals were either arrested on the tenth day of protests or had been detained earlier but were confirmed by HRANA today. This includes the transfer of approximately 200 detained women to Kachooie Prison in Karaj and 500 detained men to the Central Prison of Karaj.

Other detained protesters whose identities have been individually confirmed on this day are listed in an appendix at the end of this report.

So far, at least 15 videos of forced confessions by detainees have been broadcast by official media outlets or those close to security institutions, videos for which it remains unclear under what conditions individuals were compelled to confess against themselves.

International Reactions

As nationwide protests continue in Iran and security crackdowns intensify, international reactions and statements have also persisted.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over recent developments in Iran, stating that he was “deeply saddened” by the killing and injury of protesters and stressing the need to prevent further loss of life. He called on Iranian authorities to respect the rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and peaceful protest, and to allow people to express their grievances peacefully.

The Persian-language account of the U.S. State Department on X, referring to yesterday’s raid by security forces on Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam, described the action as a “clear crime against humanity” and wrote that hospitals are not battlefields. The statement added that the actions of the Islamic Republic constitute a gross violation of international law and demonstrate a complete disregard for human life.

Amnesty International, condemning the attack by security forces on a hospital in Ilam that was being used to treat or shelter injured protesters, described the incident as a clear violation of international law. The organization emphasized that the attack once again shows how far Iranian authorities are willing to go to suppress protests and silence dissent.

Reaction of Iranian Government Officials

In response to U.S. warnings, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described these positions as “psychological warfare” and sought to frame them as part of a media and external pressure campaign.

The most significant focal point of domestic reactions on the tenth day was the release of a video showing security forces raiding Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam, an incident highlighted as a sensitive turning point in media coverage. According to accounts, protesters injured in Malekshahi had been transferred to the hospital, after which the facility was surrounded. Security forces attempted to enter and arrest some of the injured but faced resistance from families and medical staff. Subsequently, images emerged showing tear gas being fired inside the hospital building.

In response, the Ministry of Health issued a statement announcing that the matter was under serious review “by explicit order of the Minister of Health” and would be pursued “within the framework of the law,” emphasizing the security of medical centers, patients’ rights, and support for healthcare workers.

At the same time, Masoud Pezeshkian ordered an investigation into the incident, and according to BBC reports, Eskandar Momeni (Minister of Interior) assigned a delegation to follow up and submit a report.

On the political and economic front, Masoud Pezeshkian, speaking at an official ceremony in an unusually candid tone, placed responsibility for the current situation on the governing structure, stating that “the parliament and the government together have brought the country to this point,” and emphasizing that “we are all to blame.” This stance was reflected in coverage of the tenth day as a sign of social pressure and a crisis of governance.

In contrast, media outlets close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including Fars News Agency (as reported by the BBC), confirmed the presence of security forces at the hospital but claimed that protesters had used the hospital as a “stronghold”, a narrative aimed at justifying and reframing the security forces’ actions.

Meanwhile, the public and revolutionary prosecutor of Shahrod stated that protesters’ voices should be heard, but warned that those who engage in what he described as “rioting” would face the law.

Domestic Reactions (Civil Society, Labor Groups, and Public Figures)

Alongside official reactions, part of the tenth day’s responses included expressions of solidarity from artists, as well as supportive actions abroad.

The Teachers’ Trade Association of Aligudarz issued a statement in support of the recent protests, declaring that the expansion of poverty, corruption, discrimination, special privileges, unemployment, and runaway inflation has pushed society to a point of despair and anger. The statement noted that the loss of hope for the future has turned employment, marriage, and housing into unattainable dreams for young people, creating a generation with nothing left to lose. According to the association, despite all the risks, protesters have courageously put their lives and health on the line to voice their demands in the streets.

Continuing reactions from sports and cultural figures, Mohammad Khakpour, former captain of Iran’s national football team, criticized labeling protesters as “rioters,” writing that people crushed by inflation, unemployment, and insecurity cannot be silenced with a label. Ali Ghamsari, a musician and composer, described the protests as stemming from poverty and hardship, emphasizing that they are rooted in concern for the country and a sense of social responsibility. Alireza Haghighi, former national team goalkeeper, also shared a message stating that protesting is not a crime—the real crime is not listening to the people’s voices.

Ali Daei, a legendary Iranian footballer, criticized the economic situation, saying that the sharp rise in the dollar exchange rate shows officials have become disconnected from the people’s suffering, and stressed that nothing can replace the people of Iran. Pantea Bahram, a theater and film actress, also expressed solidarity with protesting bazaar merchants and announced that she was joining the strikes. Alireza Ghorbani, a traditional music singer, citing the country’s current conditions and the hardships imposed on the people, announced the postponement of his “Iranam” concert in Tabriz and other upcoming performances, stating that holding concerts at this time does not align with the public mood.

Individually Identified Arrests on the Tenth Day

1. Amin Yousefi – City of arrest: Ilam – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
2. Amirhossein Ta’mirkari – City of arrest: Ilam – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
3. Reza Dousti-Nejad – City of arrest: Ilam – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa – Notable detail: 17-year-old minor
4. Artin Sohrabi – City of arrest: Ilam – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa – Notable detail: 17-year-old minor
5. Amir Ali Abdian – City of arrest: Ilam – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa – Notable detail: 16-year-old minor
6. Firooz Faraji – City of arrest: Ilam – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
7. Mohammad Sadra Mansouri – City of arrest: Ilam – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
8. Alireza Paryab – City of arrest: Dehloran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
9. Mohammad Amin Mahmoudian – City of arrest: Sarableh – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
10. Mohammad Amin Mahmoudian – City of arrest: Sarableh – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
11. Mohammadhossein Moradi – City of arrest: Sarableh – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
12. Ahmadreza Mohammadian – City of arrest: Karzan – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
13. Arman Dadfar – City of arrest: Badreh – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
14. Milad Seyed Moradi – City of arrest: Dehloran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
15. Misagh Seyed Moradi – City of arrest: Dehloran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
16. Mehdi Hatami – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
17. Shahin Yousefi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
18. Ali Ahmadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
19. Hossein Ahmadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
20. Afshin Najafi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
21. Ramin Mohammadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
22. Mohammadreza Heidari – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: 17-year-old minor
23. Saha Ilbeigi – City of arrest: Tehran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Amirkabir Newsletter – Notable detail: Student
24. Sheida Namjoo – City of arrest: Birjand – Place of detention: The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility – Current status: Detained – Source: Amirkabir Newsletter – Notable detail: Student
25. Zeynab Ivani – City of arrest: Birjand – Place of detention: The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility – Current status: Detained – Source: Amirkabir Newsletter – Notable detail: Student
26. Faizeh Shamaili – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
27. Javad Estavari – City of arrest: Darreh Shahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
28. Ehsan Vineh – City of arrest: Kermanshah – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
29. Abolfazl Dorqaidi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
30. Abolfazl Khoshnood – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
31. Abolfazl Rahimi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
32. Abolfazl Sharifi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
33. Abolfazl Oshal – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
34. Ahmadreza Khaleghipour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
35. Amin Ezzati – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
36. Amir Mohammad Bakhtiari – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
37. Amirhossein Rahi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
38. Amirhossein Karimi-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
39. Omid Mohammadpour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
40. Omid Mohammadpour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
41. Arya Samsami – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
42. Anahita Hekmatinia – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
43. Ainaz Parvaneh – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
44. Behnam Armoon – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
45. Benyamin Arshadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
46. Parisa Mousavi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
47. Parichehr Ansari – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
48. Hamid Jahanbazian – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
49. Hadis Sheybaz – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
50. Hossein Aghajani – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
51. Hossein Haghigh-Mofrad – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
52. Hossein Hosseini – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
53. Hossein Khajehyar – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
54. Hossein Sousanzadeh – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
55. Davoud Zarghami – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
56. Diana Moradian – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
57. Reza Farhadi Sisakht – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
58. Reza Nourian – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
59. Reyhaneh Pourkaram – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
60. Saman Akbari – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
61. Sanaz Davoudi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
62. Setayesh Ansari – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
63. Soroush Amini – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
64. Samira Karimi-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
65. Sima Sajjadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
66. Shayan Mohedian – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
67. Shahab Asadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
68. Shahab Parand – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
69. Shahram Omrani – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
70. Shahreh Nigh-Eghbal – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
71. Shima Khorshidian – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
72. Sheghayegh Zahedi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
73. Taha Kazemi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
74. Abbas Varestegi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
75. Erfan Bazdan – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
76. Ghorfan Rahman-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
77. Ghazal Hamzeh Amaleh – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
78. Fatemeh Mousa-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
79. Farzad Foroughi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
80. Farnoush Azar – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
81. Farid Alizadeh – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
82. Farid Hatami-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
83. Mahan Mahmoudi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
84. Mohammad Abdollah-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
85. Mohammad Ravansalar – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
86. Mohammad Mehdi Alipour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
87. Mohammad Hormoz-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
88. Mehrdad Shaban-Nejad – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
89. Mahshid Mousa-Pour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
90. Mohaddeseh Mohammadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
91. Mojgan Forouzan – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
92. Milad Karimi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
93. Neda Ahmadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
94. Yasin Mohammadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
95. Yalda Pezhvani – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
96. Zahra Darfarin – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
97. Zohreh Dejman – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
98. Alireza Sadeghi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
99. Ali-Asghar Farhadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
100. Emad Dashtban – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
101. Javad Javadpour – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
102. Saeid Deil – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
103. Sina Dana – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
104. Abolfazl Khodadi – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
105. Saber Vafaei – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
106. Kiarash Afshanandeh – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
107. Hamid Dadras – City of arrest: Yasuj – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
108. Mehrdad Kamayi – City of arrest: Dehdasht – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
109. Sadegh Bazkar – City of arrest: Dehdasht – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
110. Mohammad Miri – City of arrest: Gachsaran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
111. Qasem Mahmoudi – City of arrest: Gachsaran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
112. Nazgol Mahmoudi – City of arrest: Gachsaran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
113. Mehraneh Mousavi-Pour – City of arrest: Gachsaran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
114. Kianoush Noshadi – City of arrest: Gachsaran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
115. Maryam Nezha Sobhani – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
116. Sogand Soleimani – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
117. Negar Ghorbani – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
118. Javid Mour – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
119. Saeid Soleimani – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
120. Pejman Khajouei-Nia – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
121. Seyed Kazem Hosseini – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
122. Mehri Alghasemi – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
123. Amir Mohammad Mansouri – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
124. Ali-Asghar Tabouhi – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
125. Arsalan Bakhtiarvand – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
126. Alireza Mari – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
127. Zabihollah Limoochi – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
128. Abolfazl Rahimi – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
129. Amirhossein Sani – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
130. Elaheh Moghaddasi – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
131. Amir Abbas Homayouni – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
132. Narges Abdollahi – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
133. Younes Mari – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
134. Mohammad Dousti – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
135. Mohammad Javad Dousti – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
136. Khadijeh Beigi – City of arrest: Yazdanshahr – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Minor (under 18)
137. Hamidreza Saadati – City of arrest: Mashhad – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
138. Morteza Kamel – City of arrest: Mashhad – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
139. Mojtaba Fekri – City of arrest: Mashhad – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
140. Ehsan Seyfouri – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
141. Amir Farhadi – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
142. Mehdi Bagheri – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
143. Bahar Rafiei – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
144. Asal Begvand – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
145. Yasin Hashemian – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
146. Alireza Abdi – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
147. Sahar Rezadoust – City of arrest: Zanjan – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Amirkabir Newsletter
148. Dina Salari – City of arrest: Sonqor – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: Kurdpa
149. Homayoun Eftekhariannia – City of arrest: Tehran – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
150. Mohammad Salehi – City of arrest: Hamedan – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA – Notable detail: Student
151. Raheleh Zardkouhi – City of arrest: Mashhad – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA
152. Hashem Amini – City of arrest: Mashhad – Place of detention: Unknown – Current status: Detained – Source: HRANA

Collective or Unidentified Arrests on the Tenth Day: Based on Media Reports or HRANA Field Investigations

1. According to domestic media reports, at least eight citizens were arrested individually or in groups in the cities of Zarqan (Fars Province), Shahrud (Semnan Province), Bushehr, Bojnurd, Dezful, and Baharestan in Tehran Province.
2. The arrest of 200 women and their transfer to Kachooie Prison in Karaj.
3. The arrest of 500 individuals and their transfer to the Central Prison of Karaj.
4. The arrest of 10 individuals in Mazandaran Province.
5. The arrest of one individual in Tonekabon.

In Conclusion

The ongoing protests, which initially began in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, have entered their tenth day marked by geographical expansion, increased public participation, and an intensified presence of security forces. The combination of livelihood-related and political demands, the rising number of arrests, and authorities’ efforts to simultaneously contain the crisis through economic and security measures indicate the high level of sensitivity within the ruling establishment regarding the continuation of these protests.

HRANA continues to collect, verify, and complete information related to these protests and will publish supplementary reports should the gatherings persist or expand.

Detailed Report on the Ninth Day of Protests: More Than 1,200 Protesters Arrested

Posted on January 5, 2026January 5, 2026 by . .

Children, Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

Erfan Bozorgi, HRANA, Mansour Mokhtari, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Mohammad Qasem Rousta, Mostafa Fallahi, Parviz Boroumand, Reza Kianian, Reza Moradi Abdolvand, Sajad Babaei, Vahab Ghaedi

HRANA – For the ninth consecutive day, protests and strikes continued across numerous cities in Iran. Analysis of collected and verified data shows that despite an increasingly securitized environment, the expanded presence of law enforcement and security forces, ongoing street-level confrontations, and the use of live ammunition in some areas, the geographic scope of the protests has not diminished. On the contrary, diverse forms of protest activity have persisted nationwide. In recent days, at least 257 locations in 88 cities across 27 provinces have witnessed protest gatherings. During this period, at least 1,203 citizens were arrested, and at least 29 protesters lost their lives.

Protests that initially took shape in the form of strikes and labor-related gatherings entered a new phase on the ninth consecutive day. Alongside the continuation of some labor actions, street protests and student demonstrations at several universities have also been reported.

Background to the Protests

The protests emerged in a context where economic pressures on broad segments of society have reached a critical stage, and clear signs of disruption in the cycle of daily livelihoods are visible. Repeated surges in exchange rates, prolonged market instability, and the continuous decline in purchasing power have darkened and rendered unpredictable the economic outlook for households and trade activists alike, turning financial insecurity into a widespread experience.

In the days leading up to the start of the protests, reports indicated that exchange rates had crossed new thresholds, alongside a downturn in the capital market and capital outflows. Analysts have interpreted this trend as a shift of liquidity toward safer markets such as gold and foreign currency, and a decline in public trust in economic policies. At the grassroots level, the consequences have included the closure or partial shutdown of trade units, increasing difficulty in sustaining small businesses, and the spread of protest and strike waves in various cities, protests rooted not in a single short-term factor, but in the long-term accumulation of livelihood pressures and the erosion of hope for improved conditions.

Geography of the Protests

Based on updated and aggregated information, at least 257 locations across Iran have witnessed protests, street gatherings, or labor strikes in recent days. These protest activities have been reported in 27 provinces nationwide, and during the same period, 17 universities have also seen student-led protest actions.

Over the past 24 hours, reports have been received of protest gatherings in the cities of Ilam, Arak, Hamedan, Amol, Lahijan, Malekshahi, Semnan, Shalamzar, Bojnord, Babol, Koushk, Yasuj, Parand, Tehran, Asgharabad, Bandar Ganaveh, Marvdasht, Najafabad, Abadeh, Eslamabad-e Gharb, Sanandaj, Sari, Farsan, Shandiz, Sonqor, and Birjand.

An examination of the geographic pattern of the protests indicates that these activities have not been limited to major metropolitan areas, but have also extended to smaller cities and various regions across the country. This reflects the increasingly widespread nature of the protests and the participation of diverse social groups in the protest movement.

Methods of Protest and Slogans

Verified reports indicate that the protests on the ninth day, similar to previous days, encompassed a diverse range of demands. Slogans voiced during gatherings went beyond livelihood and economic grievances, also including criticism of governance, objections to restrictions on individual and social freedoms, and calls for justice.

Within the framework of its human rights mission, HRANA focuses its reporting on slogans and demands that are directly related to violations of human rights or the pursuit of fundamental freedoms and civil rights. The persistence of these demands across different parts of the country reflects the depth of public discontent and the overlap of economic, social, and political grievances within the ongoing protests.

Conduct of Law Enforcement–Security Forces and Details of Violence

On the ninth day of nationwide protests, reports and videos received by HRANA continue to indicate the persistence of a heavy security atmosphere and the use of repressive measures by law enforcement and security forces to prevent the formation or expansion of protest gatherings. Reports from various cities document violent crackdown, gunfire, the use of tear gas, and the arrest of protesters.

On the ninth day of protests, at least four videos of forced confessions by detained citizens in Tehran, Malard, Parand, and Darreh Shahr were published by official media outlets. It remains unclear under what conditions these videos were recorded, and there are serious ambiguities regarding how these confessions were obtained. Similar videos of forced confessions by protesters had also been broadcast in previous days by security institutions or media outlets close to them.

Alongside these developments, official narratives presented by local authorities regarding some of the fatalities have been met with skepticism from eyewitnesses and unofficial reports. Details surrounding the circumstances of these deaths remain under review and subject to verification.

Fatalities and Injuries

According to HRANA’s updated information, the deaths of at least 29 people during the nine days of protests have been confirmed. Of these, two were affiliated with law enforcement–security forces. Additionally, 64 cases of injuries among protesting citizens have been recorded to date, most of which resulted from pellet and rubber bullets.

Fars News Agency, a media outlet close to security institutions, claimed in a report that from the beginning of the protests up to last night, approximately 250 police officers and 45 Basij members were injured. Based on these figures, the number of injured military and law enforcement personnel reaches 314 as of the time of this report.

According to information confirmed by HRANA, during the past 24 hours, the deaths of Reza Moradi Abdolvand in Azna; Sajad Babaei in Qorveh; Mohammad Qasem Rousta in Marvdasht; Mansour Mokhtari in Marvdasht; Erfan Bozorgi in Marvdasht; Vahab Ghaedi in Azna; and Mostafa Fallahi in Azna have been confirmed in connection with protests in these cities.

The newspaper Emtedad, citing an informed source, confirmed that as a result of violence by law enforcement–security forces in Malekshahi and the use of live ammunition, at least 12 people were injured and three others lost their lives.

Internet Disruption

During the recent protests, the policy of imposing internet restrictions has not relied on a complete network shutdown, but rather on the implementation of gradual, localized, and calculated disruptions. Under this approach, basic connectivity has been maintained, while the quality and stability of the connection have been weakened to the extent that practical use of the internet for communication, messaging, and coordination has faced serious difficulties. This method reflects an approach that, instead of overt disconnection, relies on eroding network functionality and undermining users’ trust in internet access.

Field observations from Tehran and other cities show that these restrictions have not been applied uniformly; their intensity and form have varied depending on location, time, and service provider. In some areas, mobile or fixed-line internet access was cut off for hours, while in others the connection was weak, unstable, and effectively unusable. This apparent dispersion and lack of uniformity indicate the targeted implementation of restrictions in sensitive areas and protest sites, a model that reduces protesters’ communication capabilities without provoking widespread public backlash.

From a technical perspective, many of these disruptions are not clearly visible in aggregate data, as they are applied at local network levels or higher communication layers. At the same time, intensified filtering, widespread blocking of circumvention tools, and interference with commonly used protocols have led to service instability and a noticeable decline in traffic. The result of these combined measures is a network that may appear technically “connected,” but in practice has lost the capacity for stable data transmission and has become an ineffective tool for users.

Arrests

Over nine days of protests, at least 1,203 protesting citizens have been arrested; however, the actual number of detainees is estimated to be significantly higher.

Individually identified arrests on the ninth day:

1. Navid Kahro – Arrested in Rasht; place of detention unknown; released.
Source: United Students
Note: Student
2. Hessam Ghadiri – Arrested in Rasht; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
Note: Student
3. Mohammad Babakhani – Arrested in Eqbaliyeh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
4. Mehdi Kahani – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
Note: 17-year-old minor
5. Reza Chakav – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
6. Milad Shapsandi – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
7. Mehdi Fahimi – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
8. Armin Karimi – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
9. Amir Mohammad Sohrabian – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
10. Mohaddeseh Razzazadeh – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
11. Ali Saraei – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
12. Amir Yousefzadeh – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
13. Mohammad Mehdi Aydian – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
14. Jafar Rahbari – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
15. Nima Naseri – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
16. Hassan Nourdinvand – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
17. Mohammad Amin Bazgir – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
18. Mehdi Gheysar Beigi – Arrested in Malekshahi; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
19. Nabi Omidi – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
Note: Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Ilam
20. Iman Cheshteh – Arrested in Mahabad; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
Note: Student
21. Meysam Nouri – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
22. Moein Fazeli – Arrested in Badreh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
23. Reza Abdshahi – Arrested in Badreh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
24. Arya Karimi – Arrested in Badreh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
25. Behzad Abbasi – Arrested in Chardavol; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
26. Hiva Abbasi – Arrested in Chardavol; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
27. Mostafa Faraji – Arrested in Malekshahi; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
28. Javad Malek – Arrested in Malekshahi; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
29. Ali Sajadian – Arrested in Sarableh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
30. Milad Karami – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
31. Amir Morad Haseli – Arrested in Badreh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
32. Alireza Naghizadeh – Arrested in Sarableh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
33. Omid Aini – Arrested in Dehloran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
34. Sahand Nejatbakhsh – Arrested in Tehran; place of detention unknown; released.
Source: United Students
Note: Student
35. Amin Karimi – Arrested in Tehran; place of detention unknown; released.
Source: Amir Kabir Newsletter
Note: Student
36. Mobin Safdari – Arrested in Tehran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Amir Kabir Newsletter
Note: Student
37. Ali Bijani Banari – Arrested in Gachsaran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
38. Alireza Maki Zadeh Banari – Arrested in Gachsaran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
39. Mohsen Sabzi Zadeh Banari – Arrested in Gachsaran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
40. Hassan Maili – Arrested in Hamedan; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
41. Sajad Nazemkani – Arrested in Gachsaran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
42. Ayoub Karimi – Arrested in Malekshahi; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
43. Parviz Yazdani – Arrested in Bojnord; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Baloch Activists Campaign
44. Ehsan Masoudi – Arrested in Tehran; place of detention unknown; released.
Source: United Students
Note: Student
45. Alireza Rasouli – Arrested in Tehran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Amir Kabir Newsletter
Note: Student
46. Ruhollah Karami – Arrested in Dehloran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
47. Mobin Oulad – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
48. Bijan Maghsoudi – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
49. Noushad Arabi – Arrested in Sarableh; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
50. Amirhossein Seidi Boujani – Arrested in Kermanshah; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
51. Amir Lotfi – Arrested in Ilam; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
52. Mohammad Alinesab Banari – Arrested in Gachsaran; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
53. Amir Hossein Bahrampour – Arrested in Mashhad; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
54. Erfan Kaskani – Arrested in Sabzevar; held in the quarantine ward of Sabzevar Prison; detained.
Source: HRANA
55. Esmail Salehabadi – Arrested in Joveyn; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
56. Abolfazl Mohammadi – Arrested in Sabzevar; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
57. Ebrahim Derakhshan – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
58. Ahmadreza Madani – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
59. Ahmad Karami – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
60. Arya Sabzpour – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
61. Omid Mohammadi – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
62. Hassan Emouri – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
63. Shahab Gholamian – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
64. Ali Hassan Behamin – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
65. Alireza Oveisi – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
66. Alireza Rostami – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
67. Mohammad Amin Rasti-Zadeh – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
68. Mohammad Mokhtari – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
69. Mehrdad Shabanzadeh – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
70. Neda Gerami – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
71. Yashar Shahbazi – Arrested in Yasuj; held at the IRGC Intelligence detention facility; detained.
Source: HRANA
72. Abolfazl Azarian – Arrested in Behbahan; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: HRANA
73. Ahmad Reza Hashemi – Arrested in Behbahan; place of detention unknown; released.
Source: HRANA
74. Siroos Mohammadi Khorasani – Arrested in Behbahan; place of detention unknown; released.
Source: HRANA
75. Mohammad Shafiei – Arrested in Behbahan; held in Behbahan; detained.
Source: HRANA
76. Sadra Yousefi – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
77. Ali Darabi – Arrested in Darreh Shahr; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa
78. Keyomars Vaezhi – Arrested in Sonqor; place of detention unknown; detained.
Source: Kurdpa

Group Arrests or Arrests Without Identity Confirmation on the Ninth Day
(Based on media reports or HRANA field investigations):

1. The arrest of at least 100 citizens in Bojnord
2. The arrest of 7 citizens in Tehran, Bandar Abbas, Qom, Yasuj, Malard, and Darreh Shahr
3. The arrest of five students at the University of Birjand
4. The arrest of 14 individuals in Qazvin
5. The arrest of a number of citizens under the age of 20 in Yazdanshahr
6. The arrest of two individuals in Isfahan
7. The arrest of at least four students at Noushirvani University of Technology in Babol

International Reactions

As nationwide protests continued and security crackdowns intensified in Iran, international reactions and statements also increased.

Donald Trump, the President of the United States, once again warned the Iranian government against the use of violence against protesters. He stated, “If they start killing people like they did in the past, in my view they will face a very severe blow from the United States of America.”

Reaction of Iranian Government Officials

Inside the country, government officials continued to emphasize a security-based narrative of the protests. Today, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of Parliament, described protesters as “rioters” and “instigators of unrest,” and claimed they were linked to “intelligence services.”

The head of the judiciary, speaking at a meeting of the Supreme Judicial Council, threatened protesters and stated that those arrested would face decisive action and that there would be “no leniency.” Stressing zero tolerance toward what he described as “riots,” he ordered that individuals who had assisted protesters, even if they had not participated directly in demonstrations, should be prosecuted.

The IRGC’s Lorestan branch also issued a statement announcing the end of what it called a “period of leniency,” declaring that the “agents and organizers of the unrest will be identified decisively and dealt with legally in the shortest possible time.” Meanwhile, the spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the U.S. president’s warnings regarding the suppression of protesters in Iran as “psychological warfare” by the United States and Israel.

In the executive sphere, the government announced internet restrictions and shutdowns in certain areas. The Minister of Communications stated that this policy was neither “absolute nor permanent” and was being implemented with security and livelihood considerations in mind. At the same time, Parliament approved the general outline of the 2026 budget bill, promising “livelihood reforms”, a move observers have interpreted as an attempt to contain growing public discontent.

Domestic Reactions (Civil and Public Figures)

The Iranian Writers’ Association issued a statement supporting the people’s “unconditional right to protest,” calling on writers, freedom-seeking artists, and aligned institutions around the world to “be the loud voice of support for the people of Iran and not allow the government to once again fill prisons and cemeteries with protesters.” The statement noted that the Islamic Republic was founded on the “killing, torture, and imprisonment of opponents, critics, and freedom seekers,” emphasizing that the government has consistently responded to street protests with a “uniform pattern,” including “direct gunfire at protesters and the fabrication of cases against detainees.”

The Khorasan Bar Association, reacting to the recent protests, stressed the need to uphold citizens’ rights and human dignity and announced its readiness to play an advisory role in legal dialogue. The statement emphasized that peaceful protest against economic conditions is legitimate and must be distinguished from violent or destructive acts that exploit such protests.

Cinema actor Reza Kianian, in defense of the protesters, wrote on his personal page that it is young people with no future, the unemployed, shopkeepers, and employees whose income does not cover their expenses who are protesting. He stressed that protesters take to the streets out of desperation to make their voices heard.

Homayoun Shajarian, a traditional Iranian music singer, announced the cancellation of his concerts, writing that due to the pain and suffering experienced by the people and the violence faced by protesters, he was unable to perform. Parviz Boroumand, former goalkeeper of Iran’s national football team, addressed officials, stating: “The voice of Iran’s oppressed, dignified, and honorable people must be heard; these people are not rioters.”

Conclusion

The ongoing protests, which began in Tehran’s bazaar, have entered their ninth day marked by geographic expansion, increased public participation, and an intensified presence of security forces. The combination of livelihood-related and political demands, rising arrests, and authorities’ simultaneous economic and security-oriented efforts to contain the crisis reflect the government’s heightened sensitivity to the continuation of these protests.

HRANA continues to collect, verify, and complete information related to these protests and will publish supplementary reports should the gatherings persist or expand further.

Detailed Report on the Eighth Day of Protests; 222 Locations Across the Country Witness Demonstrations

Posted on January 4, 2026January 4, 2026 by . .

Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

Bandar-Abbas, Behbahan, Birjand, Dorud, Gachsaran, Hafshejan, HRANA, Joveyn, Karaj, Kermanshah, Khorramabad, Lahijan, Likak, Mahallat, Marvdasht, Mashhad, Mashkan, Neyshabur, Nurabad-e Mamasani, Qazvin, Rudsar, Saman, Sangsar, Sari, Shahroud, Shiraz, Sureshjan, Tabriz, Tehran, Yasuj, Yazd, Zarqan

HRANA- Protests and strikes in various cities across Iran entered their eighth day. An assessment of updated and verified data indicates that despite intensified security measures, increased deployment of law enforcement and security forces, and the continuation of on-the-ground crackdowns in some areas, the geographical spread of the protests has been maintained, and various forms of protest actions continue in different parts of the country. Over the past eight days, at least 222 locations in 78 cities across 26 provinces have witnessed protests. During these events, at least 990 citizens have been arrested, and at least 19 protesters have lost their lives.

Protests that initially began with strikes and labor and trade gatherings have continued into the eighth consecutive day, taking the form of street demonstrations, limited sectoral actions, and student protests at some universities.

Background of the Protests

Geography of the Protests

According to updated and aggregated information, over the past eight days at least 222 locations across Iran have witnessed protests, street demonstrations, or labor and trade strikes. These protests have been reported in a total of 26 provinces, and during this period, 17 universities have also seen student protest activities.

Over the past 24 hours alone, at least 20 cities, including Shiraz, Zarqan, Qazvin, Joveyn, Yazd, Bandar Abbas, Birjand, Behbahan, Karaj, Sureshjan, Sari, Tehran, Gachsaran, Mahallat, Khorramabad, Shahroud, Likak, Hafshejan, Dorud, Marvdasht, Tabriz, Kermanshah, Saman, Yasuj, Nurabad-e Mamasani, Mashhad, Mehdi Shahr (Sangsar), Lahijan, Mashkan, Rudsar, Neyshabur, and Bushehr, have experienced street protests, protest gatherings, labor strikes, student demonstrations, as well as the imposition of heightened security atmospheres in some areas.

An examination of the geographical distribution of the protests shows that these activities have not been limited to major metropolitan centers, but have also encompassed smaller cities and various regions across the country, indicating the horizontal spread of the protests and the participation of diverse social groups in this wave of dissent.

Forms of Protest and Slogans

A review of verified videos and reports shows that the eighth day of protests, similar to previous days, lacked a single unifying محور and encompassed a wide range of demands. Slogans chanted at gatherings ranged from livelihood and economic grievances to criticism of governance practices, restrictions on individual and social freedoms, and calls for justice.

Within the framework of its human rights mandate, HRANA focuses its reporting on slogans and demands that are directly related to violations of, or calls for, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and civil rights. The persistence of these demands across different parts of the country reflects the depth of public discontent and the overlap of economic, social, and political grievances within the current protest movement.

Conduct of Law Enforcement-Security Forces and Details of Violence

On the eighth day of nationwide protests, reports and published videos continued to point to a prevailing security atmosphere and the use of repressive measures by law enforcement and security forces to prevent the formation or spread of protest gatherings. Images released from various cities show violent crackdown, gunfire, the use of tear gas, and the arrest of protesters.

Meanwhile, state broadcaster IRIB aired a video of a forced confession by a citizen accused of setting fire to one of the agents—footage whose recording conditions remain unclear.

In addition, official accounts provided by local authorities regarding some of the fatalities have been met with skepticism by eyewitnesses and contradicted by unofficial reports. Details surrounding these deaths remain under review and subject to further verification.

Fatalities and Injuries

According to updated information from HRANA, the deaths of at least 20 people during the eight days of protests have been confirmed. One of the deceased was affiliated with law enforcement-security forces. At least 51 cases of citizen injuries have also been recorded so far, most of them resulting from pellet and plastic bullets.

Supplementing reports from previous days, new field investigations by this human rights organization confirm the deaths of Reza Azimzadeh, Mehdi Emami-Pour, Latif Karimi, Soroush Soleimani, Rasoul Kadiourian, Reza Kadiourian, Hossein Rabiei, and Amir Mohammad Kouhkan.

HRANA has also received concerning reports of the beating of Nasser Rezaei Ahangarany, a lawyer, by security forces on Saturday evening, January 3, during protests in Khorramabad.

Separately, Kurdpa News Agency, which covers developments in Kurdish regions, reported that at least 30 people were injured during protests in Malekshahi the previous day.

Arrests

Over the past eight days of protests, at least 990 protesting citizens have been arrested, although the actual number of detainees is estimated to be significantly higher.

Individual arrests with confirmed identities on the eighth day:

1. Full name: Salman Mardani
Place of arrest: Dehloran
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
2. Full name: Pouria Aliyari, student
Place of arrest: Esfarayen
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
3. Full name: Parsa Loghmani, student
Place of arrest: Babol
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Released
4. Full name: Erfan Dehghani Iraj
Place of arrest: Tehran
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Released
5. Full name: Asghar Shakeri
Place of arrest: Mashhad
Date of arrest: December 31, 2025
Current status: Detained
6. Full name: Fariba Hosseini
Place of arrest: Shiraz
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
7. Full name: Javad Soltani Kalateh
Place of arrest: Sabzevar
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
8. Full name: Abolfazl Imani, 17-year-old minor
Place of arrest: Sabzevar
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
9. Full name: Saeed Shiei, 17-year-old minor
Place of arrest: Sabzevar
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
10. Full name: Jalal Lotfi
Place of arrest: Sabzevar
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
11. Full name: Ali Amanabadi
Place of arrest: Neyshabur
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
12. Full name: Zahra Izadi Nia
Place of arrest: Yasuj
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
13. Full name: Hasti Ghorbani, 16-year-old minor
Place of arrest: Mashhad
Date of arrest: Unknown
Current status: Detained
14. Full name: Alireza Yazdani
Place of arrest: Tehran
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
15. Full name: Mahan Mohammadi
Place of arrest: Tehran
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
16. Full name: Sajad Ravad
Place of arrest: Behbahan
Date of arrest: January 4, 2026
Current status: Detained
17. Full name: Shahrokh Shojaei
Place of arrest: Behbahan
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
18. Full name: Abolfazl Tayebi
Place of arrest: Behbahan
Date of arrest: January 1, 2026
Current status: Detained
19. Full name: Sina Dehdashti, 16-year-old minor
Place of arrest: Behbahan
Date of arrest: January 1, 2026
Current status: Detained
20. Full name: Artin Estadayan, 16-year-old minor
Place of arrest: Behbahan
Date of arrest: January 1, 2026
Current status: Released after submission of a salary slip
21. Full name: Saber Vafaian-Nejad, 15-year-old minor
Place of arrest: Behbahan
Date of arrest: January 1, 2026
Current status: Detained
22. Full name: Maryam Zarei
Place of arrest: Yazd
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
23. Full name: Sara Nosrati, 17-year-old minor
Place of arrest: Yazd
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
24. Full name: Reyhaneh Zarei
Place of arrest: Yazd
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
25. Full name: Farzaneh Golestani
Place of arrest: Yazd
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
26. Full name: Ahmadreza Khosravi, minor
Place of arrest: Shushtar
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
27. Full name: Emad Ghorbani, minor
Place of arrest: Shushtar
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
28. Full name: Sajad Khorshidi
Place of arrest: Ilam
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
29. Full name: Abolfazl Saki
Place of arrest: Ilam
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
30. Full name: Alireza Momeni
Place of arrest: Ilam
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
31. Full name: Alireza Momeni, student
Place of arrest: Ilam
Date of arrest: January 4, 2026
Current status: Detained
32. Full name: Faizeh Rashidi
Place of arrest: Badreh
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
33. Full name: Siroos Azarmehr
Place of arrest: Isfahan
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
34. Full name: Saman Shahamat
Place of arrest: Isfahan
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
35. Full name: Payam Aminzadeh
Place of arrest: Isfahan
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
36. Full name: Siroos Javidy
Place of arrest: Isfahan
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
37. Full name: Fatemeh Zarei
Place of arrest: Mashhad
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
38. Full name: Elaheh Khazaei
Place of arrest: Shahriar
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
39. Full name: Setayesh Khazaei
Place of arrest: Shahriar
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
40. Full name: Nazanin Khazaei
Place of arrest: Shahriar
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
41. Full name: Mehdi Hasanpour
Place of arrest: Neqab
Date of arrest: January 4, 2026
Current status: Detained
42. Full name: Negar (Aram) Iranmanesh
Place of arrest: Yasuj
Date of arrest: January 4, 2026
Current status: Detained
43. Full name: Pouya Naderi
Place of arrest: Abdanan
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
44. Full name: Abdollah Ahmadi
Place of arrest: Abdanan
Date of arrest: January 4, 2026
Current status: Detained
45. Full name: Mehdi Sheikhi
Place of arrest: Abdanan
Date of arrest: January 4, 2026
Current status: Detained
46. Full name: Amir Eisa Zadeh
Place of arrest: Darreh Shahr
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
47. Full name: Mohammad Bashir Hashemian
Place of arrest: Darreh Shahr
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
48. Full name: Mehdi Hashemian
Place of arrest: Darreh Shahr
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
49. Full name: Ahmad Hasanvand Amouzadeh
Place of arrest: Darreh Shahr
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
50. Full name: Bahador Amouzadeh
Place of arrest: Darreh Shahr
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
51. Full name: Ahmad Haqnazari
Place of arrest: Sarableh
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
52. Full name: Reza Bagheri Nejad
Place of arrest: Sarableh
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
53. Full name: Shahin Qasr Beigi
Place of arrest: Sarableh
Date of arrest: January 4, 2026
Current status: Detained
54. Full name: Salal Sadeghi
Place of arrest: Shabab
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
55. Full name: Iraj Rostami Mehr
Place of arrest: Shabab
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
56. Full name: Samyar Motallebi, student
Place of arrest: Tehran
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
57. Full name: Ramin Pourasal, student
Place of arrest: Tehran
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
58. Full name: Ehsan Masoudi, student
Place of arrest: Tehran
Date of arrest: Recent days
Current status: Detained
59. Full name: Meysam Behzadi
Place of arrest: Kermanshah
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
60. Full name: Ehsan Hayati
Place of arrest: Kermanshah
Date of arrest: January 1, 2026
Current status: Detained
61. Full name: Mohammad Ziyadi
Place of arrest: Kermanshah
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
62. Full name: Rahim Mohammadvali
Place of arrest: Hersin
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
63. Full name: Ali Cheraghi
Place of arrest: Hersin
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
64. Full name: Milad Alibeygi
Place of arrest: Hersin
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Detained
65. Full name: Saeed Darvishi
Place of arrest: Eslamabad-e Gharb
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
66. Full name: Yousef Salkhordeh
Place of arrest: Gilan-e Gharb
Date of arrest: January 3, 2026
Current status: Detained
67. Full name: Delaram Kazemi
Place of arrest: Gilan-e Gharb
Date of arrest: January 2, 2026
Current status: Released

Group Arrests or Arrests Without Confirmed Identities (Eighth Day)

• Arrest of several individuals in Yazd, detained for activity on social media
• Arrest of one individual in Marlik, Malard, presented as a “leader of the protests”
• Arrest of one individual in Shiraz’s Maali Abad neighborhood, detained after being beaten by security forces
• Arrest of four citizens in Qazvin, described as “instigators of the protests”
• Arrest of several protesters in Zanjan, labeled as “agents of unrest”
• Arrest of 71 individuals, including one woman, in Yazd over recent days
• Arrest of 30 individuals on the previous night in Jafarabad neighborhood, Kermanshah
• Arrest of 150 individuals in Isfahan and their transfer to the city’s prison
• Arrest of 24 individuals in Shiraz and their transfer to Adelabad Prison
• Arrest of three individuals in Shiraz and Tehran
• Arrest of one individual in Rezvanshahr
• Arrest of 30 individuals in Behbahan

International Reactions

The escalation of violence and repression in Iran has also sparked international concern. In a statement quoted from its spokesperson, the European Union’s External Action Service expressed concern over violence against Iranian protesters and called on Iran’s security forces to exercise restraint in dealing with participants in peaceful demonstrations. The statement described the protests as “reflecting the demands of many Iranians” and emphasized that developments across Iran are being closely monitored. It further stated: “We are concerned by reports of deaths and injuries and call on Iranian security forces to show maximum restraint in responding to peaceful protests. Authorities have acknowledged socio-economic challenges, and addressing these challenges must take place through inclusive dialogue, not violence.”

A diplomatic source at France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressing regret over the killing of protesters, called for full transparency and for Iran to respect its international commitments.

Amnesty International Australia called for an immediate halt to violence, the release of political prisoners, an end to executions, and a stop to the use of lethal weapons against protesters.

The Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims, in a statement published on Friday, January 3, declared solidarity with protesters in Iran and called for an immediate end to the violent suppression of protests, accountability regarding those killed, injured, and detained, and respect for the right to protest and freedom of expression.

Domestic (Governmental) Reactions

Today, the commander of Iran’s national police (FARAJA) announced that what he described as “targeted arrests of leaders” had begun over the past two nights. Ahmadreza Radan claimed that those arrested were accused of inciting citizens and receiving foreign currency in exchange for their actions.

Meanwhile, official media and channels affiliated with security institutions continue to describe protests in various cities as “riots,” accusing protesters of ties to foreign actors and opposition groups. This narrative, presented without clear evidence, seeks to deny the livelihood-based and protest-driven nature of citizens’ demands and attribute the protests to external interference.

Mohammad Ja’far Montazeri, head of Iran’s Supreme Court, said the recent protests were unrelated to the will of the people and dismissed threats by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding support for the Iranian people as ineffective. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a member of parliament’s National Security Commission, warned the United States that any action would result in its regional interests being targeted. Qassem Ravanbakhsh, a member of parliament from Qom, described Trump’s support for protesters as foreign interference and rejected it. In contrast, Ahmad Naderi, a member of parliament’s presidium, assessed the protests as stemming from runaway inflation and economic mismanagement by the government. At the same time, the police commander of Yazd Province reported the identification and arrest of administrators of several social media pages linked to the protests.

The Iran Reform Front reacted to the recent protests, stating that the government’s approach of avoiding violence and listening to protesters’ voices is a positive—though insufficient—step toward rebuilding public trust. It emphasized that the protests in Iran have entirely domestic roots and can only be pursued through peaceful means.

Ali Rabiei, the president’s social affairs aide, said in response to the protests: “Iran today stands at one of the most complex junctures in its history, a moment shaped not only by external pressures, but by the accumulation of economic imbalances, erosion of social capital, and policy mistakes over past decades.”

Finally, the Workers’ House of Iran, in a statement reacting to the protests, declared that the people of Iran have the right to protest their livelihood and economic conditions, and that this right is legitimate, legal, and social. It added that workers across the country have repeatedly raised their demands in professional and peaceful ways.

Domestic Reactions (Civil Society, Trade Groups, and Public Figures)

The Kermanshah Bar Association, in a statement responding to the popular protests, described the purpose of governments and political, administrative, and military institutions as “serving the interests of the people” in areas such as the economy, security, healthcare, and education. It emphasized that despite nearly five decades since the revolution, the Islamic Republic has failed to achieve a large portion of these objectives. The statement said that Iran has, over these years, become a “poor and isolated” country, and that the “widespread poverty and misery of the people,” alongside the “expansion of corruption,” are clear signs of the inefficiency of the governing system. The Hersin Teachers’ Association also issued a statement supporting the protests, declaring that under current conditions, no option remains other than street protests.

Separately, the Hersin Teachers’ Association reiterated its support for the protests, stating that there is no alternative but to take to the streets.

Labor organizations, retirees’ groups, and social associations, in a joint reaction to the protests, said in a statement that runaway inflation has broken the backs of the majority of the population. Wages and salaries that fall below the poverty line and the cost-of-living basket, privatization, repression, imprisonment, executions, and war-driven policies have pushed people’s lives to the brink of collapse. Society has reached a boiling point, and nationwide protests are a direct reflection of this critical situation.

The Islam Abad-e Gharb Teachers’ Association, expressing support for the protests, stated that given the livelihood problems facing working and retired teachers and various segments of society under the current dire economic conditions, it fully supports the rightful protests of different social groups across the country and will stand alongside them.

A number of male and female athletes, including members of national teams and club teams, also voiced their support for the popular protests through public messages.

Conclusion

The ongoing protests, which began at Tehran’s bazaar, have entered their eighth day marked by geographical expansion, increased public participation, and an intensified presence of security forces. The combination of livelihood and political demands, rising arrests, and authorities’ attempts to simultaneously manage the crisis through economic and security measures highlight the state’s heightened sensitivity to the continuation of these protests.

HRANA continues to collect, verify, and complete information related to these protests and will publish follow-up reports should the demonstrations continue or expand.

Detailed Report on the Seventh Day of Protests; Increase in the Arrest of Teenagers and Broadcast of Forced Confessions

Posted on January 3, 2026January 3, 2026 by . .

Children, Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News, Other

Ahad Ebrahim-Pour, Amirhossein Bayati, Delfan, HRANA, irgc, Tehran’s Grand Bazaar

HRANA – Protests and strikes in cities across Iran entered their seventh day today, January 3. Analysis of updated and verified data indicates that despite an intensified security climate, the expanded presence of law enforcement-security forces, and continued on-the-ground confrontations in some areas, the nationwide scope of the protests has remained extensive, with demonstrations continuing in diverse forms. Over the past seven days, protests have been recorded at least 174 locations in 60 cities across 25 provinces. During this period, at least 582 individuals were arrested, and at least 15 protesting citizens lost their lives.

Protests that initially began with strikes and trade-related gatherings continued into their seventh consecutive day, taking the form of street demonstrations, limited trade actions, and student protests at several universities. As on previous days, reports indicated that law enforcement–security forces resorted to violence, employed crowd-control measures, carried out arrests, and imposed a heightened security atmosphere in a number of cities.

Background of the Protests

Geography of the Protests

Based on updated and aggregated information, at least 174 locations in Iran have witnessed protests, street gatherings, or trade strikes over the past seven days. These protests have been reported across 25 provinces, and during this period, 18 universities have also seen student protest activities.

In the past 24 hours, which constitute the seventh day of protests, protest gatherings were recorded in 12 cities across 8 provinces, including Kazerun, Malekshahi, Kermanshah, Shiraz, Mashhad, Arkavaz, Isfahan, Tehran, Hafshejan, Karaj, Shahrekord, and Fardis. Among these, two protest actions on the seventh day were reported by university communities, falling within the same 18 universities included in the cumulative seven-day statistics. Available data indicate that despite daily fluctuations in the intensity and spread of protests, universities have continued to serve as one of the focal points of dissent.

An examination of the geographic distribution of protests shows that these activities have not been limited to major metropolitan areas, but have also encompassed smaller cities and various regions of the country, reflecting the horizontal expansion of the protests and the participation of diverse social groups in this wave of demonstrations.

According to verified reports up to the time of publication, a total of 174 protests have been reported over the past seven days in 60 cities across 25 provinces. Eighteen student gatherings at 15 universities are also included in these figures.

Methods of Protest and Slogans

A review of verified videos and reports indicates that, as in previous days, the protests on the seventh day reflected a broad spectrum of demands. The slogans voiced during these gatherings ranged from livelihood and economic grievances to criticism of governance, opposition to restrictions on individual and social freedoms, and calls for justice.

In some gatherings, protests took the form of trade strikes, the closure of commercial units, or short-term street assemblies, while in others, limited and dispersed marches were reported. The repetition and prevalence of these themes across different cities indicate that the boundary between trade-related and everyday demands and political demands has become blurred, and that the ongoing protests have taken shape on the basis of accumulated, multilayered grievances.

Within the framework of its human rights mission, HRANA focuses its reporting on slogans and demands that are directly related to violations of or calls for human rights, fundamental freedoms, and citizens’ civil rights. The persistence of these demands in various parts of the country reflects the depth of public discontent and the overlap of economic, social, and political demands within the context of the ongoing protests.

Conduct of Law Enforcement-Security Forces and Details of Violence

On the seventh day of nationwide protests, published reports and videos continue to indicate the persistence of a heavy security atmosphere and the use of repressive measures by law enforcement- security forces to prevent the formation or expansion of protest gatherings. Videos released from various cities show violent confrontations, gunfire, the use of tear gas, and the arrest of protesters.

In a number of cities, reports have emerged of citizens being injured as a result of gunfire by law enforcement-security forces. In some cases, citizens have refrained from seeking medical treatment out of fear of arrest. Videos have also been published showing the violent arrest of citizens, including women protesters, in public spaces, indicating the use of physical force during arrests.

Field reports suggest that in some cities, protest gatherings have extended into symbolic spaces or main thoroughfares, prompting law enforcement-security forces to use crowd-control tools to disperse protesters. At the same time, the widespread deployment of security forces in main streets, squares, and around sensitive urban centers has been reported, with the security atmosphere intensifying in parts of these cities.

Alongside these developments, official accounts provided by local authorities regarding some of the deaths have been met with doubt by eyewitnesses and contradicted by unofficial reports. Details surrounding the circumstances of these deaths remain under review and subject to verification.

Fatalities

According to updated information from HRANA, the deaths of at least 16 people during the seven days of protests have been confirmed. Among the fatalities, at least one was a member of law enforcement-security forces, while the remaining cases involve protesting citizens.

In several instances, official narratives presented by authorities have conflicted with eyewitness accounts and unofficial information, and details regarding how these individuals lost their lives are still being investigated and verified. For example, on the evening of Friday, January 2, 2026, during popular protests in the city of Qom, one protester lost their life. While the Provincial Security Council confirmed the death of this citizen, it claimed that the individual died as a result of the explosion of fireworks they were carrying. However, eyewitnesses have challenged the official account, stating that the protester’s death occurred as a result of actions by security forces present at the scene.

Separately, the political and security deputy governor of Qom reported the death of a 17-year-old teenager from Qom during protests the previous night, claiming that the teenager was killed by gunfire from protesters.

HRANA has also been able to confirm the identities of two other protesting citizens who died as a result of violence by law enforcement–security forces: Amirhossein Bayati in Hamedan and Ahad Ebrahim-Pour in Delfan.

The agency emphasizes that due to severe restrictions on information, security pressure on families, and a closed media environment, the number of fatalities may increase or details in some cases may change. This section will be updated if new information becomes available.

Arrests and Security Pressures

Over the past seven days of protests, at least 582 protesting citizens have been arrested, although the actual number of detainees is estimated to be significantly higher.

Simultaneously with street protests by citizens, reports received by HRANA from Karaj Central Prison indicate that prisoners in Wards 15 and 16 were forcibly transferred to other wards by prison authorities, and these two wards have been designated to hold detainees from the recent protests.

Today, HRANA also received reports from Qom Prison indicating that approximately 200 detained citizens have been transferred to this facility. These individuals were arrested during the protests, and HRANA is currently investigating their identities.

Meanwhile, reports from Yasuj indicate that at least 81 people have been arrested in recent days, 70 of whom are under the age of 18 and have been transferred to the Juvenile Rehabilitation Center and Yasuj Prison. Eleven other detainees remain held in security detention facilities.

According to published information, a significant portion of those arrested are teenagers. In Sabzevar, Zahra Mahdavi, Faraz Ziaei, Meysam Zakeri, Nazanin Zahra Mousavi, Saba Mahroomi, and Houman Balashabadi, all 17 years old, were arrested and transferred to the Mashhad Juvenile Rehabilitation Center. In Izeh, Shahpour Alborzi and Hessam Mohammadi, both 16 years old, were arrested by security forces. In Yasuj, Ilya Akvanian, a 15-year-old teenager, was also arrested.

Intelligence forces of the IRGC in Isfahan arrested two teenage girls during yesterday’s protests in the city. At the same time, a video of their forced confessions was published, though it is unclear under what conditions it was recorded. In the video, the two teenagers claim they received money from an individual to participate in street protests.

As arrests continued, a number of students and citizens were detained in various cities. Majid Jamshidzadeh, an undergraduate industrial design student at Iran University of Science and Technology, was arrested in Tehran and transferred to an unknown location. Amir Mohammad Rostami, an architecture student approximately 26 years old, was arrested during protests in Nazi Abad, Tehran, and was beaten at the time of arrest. Mohammad Saebi, a former member of the University of Tehran’s student trade council, was arrested by security forces in Yazd. Amirhossein Khaleghi, a law student at Rajaee University in Qazvin, was arrested at Khayyam Square in Qazvin, and Yousef Rezaei, a petroleum engineering student in Yasuj, was also arrested in the city. No information is available regarding the location of detention or charges against these two students. In addition, Erfan Tajabadi, Erfan Abed in Sabzevar, and Pouria Keyshams, Arman Soleimani, Nemat Heydari, and Mohammad Karimi in Masjed Soleyman; Peyman Yousefi in Dezful; and Parsa Akaber in Yasuj are among other reported detainees.

In Mashhad, Mohammad Taheri Parsa; in Nahavand, Amir Mohammad Khazaei and Alireza Khazaei; in Kashmar, Reza Abdi; and in Esfarayen, Ali Ghavidel, Abbas Beidi, Arian Heydari, Issa Shakouri, Peyman Mirzaei, and Alireza Ja’fari were arrested. In Kermanshah, Sepideh Kermanshahi, Setareh Mohammadi, Sayeh Shooshtari Kermanshahi, and Reza Shooshtari were among those detained and later released on bail. In Dehloran, Reza Seifi and Ilya Ghasemi were arrested, while in Darreh Shahr, Mohammad Taha Zeynivand, Peyman Hassanvand, Amin Shokri-Pour, Shahrooz Shokri-Pour, and Esmail Zohrabi were detained. In Zahedan, Zobair Barahoui, Hanif Barahoui, Omar Gamshadzehi, Ehsan Naroui, and Abdulrahman Naroui were arrested, and in Gachsaran, Mohammad Miri was also listed among detainees.

Additionally, Soheila Hejab, a civil activist, was violently arrested in Fardis, Karaj, and transferred to Kachouei Prison. Her physical condition has been reported as poor. In Harsin, four citizens, Yousef Safari, Peyman Hosseini, Morteza Hosseini, and Ehsan Hosseini, were arrested on the evening of January 1 and transferred to the IRGC detention facility in Kermanshah. Reza Abdi, 35 years old, from Kashmar and the father of two children, was also arrested today by agents of the Ministry of Intelligence in the city due to his online activities.

With the identification of six additional citizens, Mohammadreza Borichi, Kian Salarnejad, Zobair Barahoui, Hanif Barahoui, Omar Gamshadzehi, Ehsan Naroui, and Abdulrahman Naroui, the number of detainees from yesterday’s protest gathering in Zahedan has risen to 10. Previously, the arrest of three others had been reported. Among them, Kian Salarnejad is a student of industry and mining engineering at the University of Sistan and Baluchestan.

In most of these cases, no information has been released regarding the detainees’ place of detention or the charges against them.

Kurdpa News Agency published the identities of 47 citizens arrested in Kermanshah and Ilam provinces. Among them are four teenagers, Fardin Hatami, Reza Khosravi, Mohammadjavad Zarei, and Abolfazl Zarei, from Moromori in Abdanan, as well as Mohammadmehdi Karami, a 17-year-old teenager arrested in Harsin. According to the report, Arshia Joushan and Omid Beiranvand were arrested in Dehloran. In the same city, Kourosh Nouri along with Alireza Salehi, Farzad Shokri, Milad Kiadi, Omid Malekmohammadi, Sharif Azad, Shayan Momeni, Amirhossein Alizadeh, Fardin Aghaei, Ali-Mohammad Heyati, Abolfazl Jamkhaneh, Sajjad Azad, Abdullah Azad, Erfan Farahmand, Alireza Rahmani, and Amirreza Rahmani were also arrested. Meanwhile, additional arrests were reported in other cities in Ilam Province, including Abolfazl Ghasemi, Sattar Zeidi, Reza Heydari, Saman Gholami, and Shayan Aslmarz in Darreh Shahr, and Rahim Sadeghi in Sarableh, who was transferred to an unknown location. In Kermanshah Province, Younes Jamshidi, Milad Shirazi, and Navid Rostami were arrested, and in Harsin, Rahman Azarang, Sajjad Kakaei, Shapour Rashidi, and Mehdi Bali were arrested along with Mohammadmehdi Karami. Later, Zahed Afshari, Yousef Kakavand, and Noureddin Mousazadeh were also arrested. In Sarpol-e Zahab, seven citizens, Mehdi Karimi, Jabbar Jamshidi, Ghaem Badri, Masoud Aghaei, Ahad Moradi, Esfandiar Sarvari, and Askar Najafi, were arrested by plainclothes security forces and transferred to unknown locations.

During the protests in Esfarayen, Ali Ghavidel, Abbas Beidi, Arian Heydari, Issa Shokouri, Nader Tavakoli, and Peyman Mirzaei were arrested by security forces on the evening of 11 Dey. It has also been reported that Alireza Jafari was arrested today in the city. Additionally, Mohsen Heydarbigy, Morad Haseli, Amin Nourmanesh, and Farhad Mohammad Rashid were arrested in Badreh County.

As part of continued responses by security institutions, the police commander of Shushtar announced the arrest of several protesters during Thursday night protests in the city, claiming that “a handgun, 12 machete blades, and a magazine blade” were seized from them. At the same time, the IRGC “Ruhollah” Public Relations Office in Markazi Province announced the arrest of two citizens by IRGC intelligence agents, alleging that they were “administrators of two hostile and riot-inciting channels.” Images published by state broadcaster IRIB show IRGC intelligence taking control of two Telegram groups and posting messages threatening members with identification and arrest.

Separately, the Public and Revolutionary Prosecutor of Chardavol announced the arrest of several citizens during last night’s protests in Sarableh, stating that others had been identified and “would be arrested today and tomorrow.” Mohammad Sohrabzadeh described these citizens as “organized elements” and claimed they had engaged in “gunfire” during the protests, without specifying their identities or number.

Meanwhile, the IRGC Abolfazl Public Relations Office in Lorestan reported the arrest of three citizens in Khorramabad, alleging that they were in contact with an overseas media outlet with the aim of “destroying public property.” The identities of the detainees were not disclosed, and a video of their forced confessions was released. Another video of a forced confession by a detained citizen was also published by media outlets close to security institutions. In the video, recorded under unclear conditions, a young man expresses regret over posting protest-related content on his personal Instagram account.

Reactions

On the seventh day of protests, Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in his first remarks since the start of the new wave of nationwide protests, emphasized the need to confront what he described as “riots.” He stated that protest, in his view, is acceptable and that dialogue with protesters is possible, but added that “a rioter must be put in their place,” stressing that dialogue with “rioters” is futile. In another part of his remarks, he referred to recent protests by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants, describing the bazaar as “one of the most loyal segments to the system.” He claimed that the Islamic Republic cannot be confronted in the name of the bazaar and alleged that some individuals are exploiting the economic demands of merchants to undermine and destabilize the country. He also described sharp fluctuations in exchange rates and the devaluation of the national currency as “unnatural,” attributing them to “the enemy.”

Today, Mai Sato, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran, warned about the escalation of confrontations by security forces against protesters in various parts of the country. She stated that signs of a growing pattern of confrontation and violence nationwide are evident. Emphasizing the need to respect citizens’ fundamental rights, she called on Iranian authorities to uphold freedom of expression, freedom of association, and the right to peaceful assembly, and to refrain from using excessive force against protesters. Sato also warned that a repetition of violent crackdowns similar to those during the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement could have serious consequences for the country’s civic space, stressing that citizens must be able to express peaceful protests without fear of repression.

Amnesty International also expressed serious concern over reports of protesters being killed in Iran and urged Iranian authorities to respect the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and to refrain from using violence and unlawful lethal force against protesters.

Conclusion

The ongoing protests, which began in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, have entered their seventh day marked by expanded geographic spread, increased public participation, and an intensified security presence. The combination of livelihood and political demands, the rise in arrests, and authorities’ efforts to simultaneously manage the crisis through economic and security measures underscore the government’s heightened sensitivity to the continuation of these protests.

HRANA continues to collect, verify, and complete information related to these protests and will publish supplementary reports should the gatherings persist or expand.

Arrest of 81 Teenagers in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad and 200 Citizens in Qom During Protests

Posted on January 3, 2026 by . .

Children, Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

HRANA, Qom, Yasuj

HRANA– During nationwide protests in various cities, 81 teenagers were arrested by security forces. Of these, 70 have been transferred to the Juvenile Rehabilitation Center and Yasuj Prison, while 11 others are being held in detention facilities of security institutions in Yasuj. Additionally, simultaneous with a protest gathering in Qom County, 200 citizens were arrested and transferred to Qom Prison.

Based on information received by HRANA, following protests in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, 81 teenagers were arrested by security forces. Among them, 70 were transferred to the Juvenile Rehabilitation Center and Yasuj Prison, and 11 others are being held in detention facilities of security institutions in Yasuj.
Meanwhile, media outlets close to security institutions reported the arrest of 200 citizens in Qom. These individuals were transferred to the city’s prison after their arrest.

Further details in this regard, including the identification of those detained, are still under review by HRANA.

It is worth noting that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants, which began on Sunday in Tehran, expanded beyond bazaars and commercial centers as of Tuesday, January 30. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests have become one of the most widespread demonstrations of recent years. For more information, you may refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the sixth day, published last night.

Detailed Report on the Sixth Day of Protests: Violence by Security Forces and an Increase in the Arrest of Protesters

Protests and strikes by shopkeepers and citizens in various cities across Iran entered their sixth day today. Over the past six days, at least 113 locations across the country, in 46 cities spanning 22 provinces, have witnessed protests. During these protests, dozens of people were arrested and at least eight protesters lost their lives.

Posted on January 2, 2026January 2, 2026 by . .

Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

HRANA – Protests and strikes by shopkeepers and citizens in various cities across Iran entered their sixth day today. Over the past six days, at least 113 locations across the country, in 46 cities spanning 22 provinces, have witnessed protests. During these protests, dozens of people were arrested and at least eight protesters lost their lives.

The widespread protests that began on Monday, December 29, with gatherings and strikes by bazaar merchants in Tehran continued today, Friday, January 2, for a sixth consecutive day. The protests have been accompanied in some cities by an intensified security presence, violence, and arrests of citizens. Demonstrations persisted in cities including Neyshabur, Sabzevar, Esfarayen, Mashhad, Hamedan, Fardis, Gohardasht, Khorramabad, Qazvin, Tehran, Fuladshahr, Zahedan, Marvdasht, Parand, Hafshejan, Joneqan, Yasuj, and Qom. Reports were also published today indicating the use of violence by security and law enforcement forces. As protests continued, the scope of arrests expanded, with reports collected of dozens of protesting citizens being detained.

Background to the Protests

The new wave of protests has emerged amid unprecedented economic pressure on various segments of society, alongside simultaneous signs of structural erosion in the country’s livelihood system. The rapid rise in foreign currency prices, chronic market instability, and the continued devaluation of the national currency have made the economic outlook extremely uncertain for citizens and trade activists.

In the days leading up to the protests, the exchange rate surpassed 140,000 tomans, while the capital market experienced a significant outflow of capital and declines in indices. According to analysts, these developments reflect a large-scale shift of capital toward lower-risk assets such as foreign currency and gold, and signal declining public confidence in economic policies. The direct consequences have included the closure or partial shutdown of trade units, the inability of small businesses to continue operating, and the expansion of protests and strikes in cities across the country.

Geography of the Protests

Based on collected information, gatherings and protests on the sixth day were reported in 17 cities across 13 provinces. Protests continued in cities including Sabzevar, Esfarayen, Neyshabur, Mashhad, Hafshejan, Joneqan, Hamedan, Fardis, Tehran, Parand, Gohardasht, Zahedan, Marvdasht, Fooladshahr, Yasuj, Qazvin, and Qom.

In Zahedan, protesting citizens took to the streets after Friday prayers and chanted protest slogans. These gatherings mainly took place on University Street and Khayyam Street.

Marvdasht also witnessed protest gatherings today. In the morning, during the burial ceremony of one of those killed in the protests, citizens chanted protest slogans, and several hours later, protest gatherings formed on Enghelab Street in the city.

Meanwhile, a video from the burial ceremony of Dariush Ansari Bakhtiarvand in Fuladshahr has been published, showing a large turnout of citizens. This protesting citizen was shot by law enforcement–security forces on Wednesday evening, December 31, after participating in popular protests, and lost his life.

According to verified reports up to the time of publication, a total of 113 protests have been recorded over the past six days in 46 cities across 22 provinces. Fifteen student gatherings at 13 universities are also included in this figure.

Methods of Protest and Slogans

Based on reviews of videos and verified reports, the slogans chanted were largely centered on livelihood, economic, and political demands rooted in citizens’ fundamental rights. These slogans included criticism of the power structure, objections to restrictions on individual and social freedoms, demands for justice, and opposition to the prevailing economic and living conditions.

At the same time, in some gatherings, slogans with more diverse themes were also heard, reflecting the heterogeneous range of views and tendencies among protesters. Within the framework of its human rights mission, HRANA focuses its reporting on slogans and demands that are directly related to violations of, or demands for, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and civil rights.

On the sixth day of protests, scenes of dissent extended to cemeteries, where citizens chanted protest slogans during the burial ceremonies of two individuals killed in the protests. In the streets as well, protesting citizens held gatherings while chanting slogans.

The persistence and repetition of these slogans across different cities indicate an overlap between labor, livelihood, and political demands within the context of the ongoing protests, and reflect the depth of accumulated grievances in Iranian society.

Conduct of Law Enforcement-Security Forces and Details of Violence

On the sixth day of widespread protests across various Iranian cities, reports and videos indicated the continued securitized atmosphere and the use of repressive measures by law enforcement and security forces to prevent the formation and spread of protest gatherings. In one such case, a video from the city of Qom showed agents using tear gas to disperse citizens. Hours later, another video from the same city was published in which a citizen is seen holding a cartridge casing attributed to a pellet gun used by anti-riot forces, stating that it belonged to pellet “No. 5.”

In Tehran, a video from protests in the Narmak neighborhood shows anti-riot forces using violence in an attempt to arrest a female protester. Field reports also indicate that today, Friday, security forces used violence to arrest a number of protesters during demonstrations in Zahedan.

Continuing acts of violence included the killing of Khodadad Shirvani, a resident of Marvdasht, who was shot by security forces yesterday after participating in popular protests and lost his life. His burial ceremony was held today, Friday, with a large turnout of citizens, during which attendees chanted protest slogans.

At the same time, a protest gathering in Yasuj was also met with suppression by law enforcement and security forces. According to a video published by BBC Persian, agents used tear gas to disperse protesters, and the sound of gunfire can also be heard in the footage. Reports have also emerged of the use of tear gas during nighttime protests in Fardis and Khorramabad.

In the cities of Hafshejan and Joneqan, protest gatherings were likewise accompanied by the presence of law enforcement forces. Mehr News Agency reported that “law enforcement officers, by being present at the scene, took action to manage the gathering.”

Additionally, a video published from protests in Kuhdasht, dating back to Wednesday, December 31, shows a protesting citizen who was seriously injured in the right leg, with those present attempting to stop the bleeding.

It has also been reported that during the nighttime protests on January 1 in Marvdasht, Fars Province, a passing vehicle was targeted by gunfire from security forces. According to the published video, a Pride car entering a main boulevard from a side street, an area filled with anti-riot forces and vehicles, was shot at close range and without prior warning by one of the agents. After the shooting, another agent intervened and instructed the driver to leave the area.

Finally, channels close to security institutions reported today the death of a Basij member during the recent protests in the city of Harsin. The individual was identified as Ali Azizi.

Arrests and Security Pressures

Today, HRANA received reports regarding the transfer of 15 detained women to Evin Prison. These women, who were arrested during the recent protests, are reportedly mostly injured and were therefore transferred to the prison infirmary upon arrival. Their identities are still under investigation.

According to additional information received, Fardin Moslemi and Mahan Khoobani, both 16 years old, were arrested by security forces in the cities of Gachsaran and Yasuj and transferred to an unknown location. Fardin Moslemi was arrested in the early hours of today, Friday, January 2, by IRGC Intelligence forces in Gachsaran, while Mahan Khoobani was arrested yesterday in Yasuj.

HRANA has also learned that Misagh Kooch Peydeh and Amir Nodehi, residents of Tehran, as well as Salman Ghodrati, a resident of Bojnord, have been arrested. According to this report, Messrs. Nodehi and Ghodrati were arrested yesterday, Thursday, by security forces.

Meanwhile, the Public and Revolutionary Prosecutor of Izeh announced the arrest of a number of citizens during last night’s protests in the city. Published reports also indicate that today, Friday, security agents arrested at least five individuals during protests by citizens in Zahedan.

In addition, reports have been received of the arrest of at least 16 citizens in the cities of Tehran, Kermanshah, and Ilam. The identities of these individuals have been reported as: Iman Ali-Moradi, Ali Najafi, Mohammad Hasanvand, Bijan Karimian, Mohammad Javad Zarei, Akbar Darvishi, Aref Darvishi, Mohammad Havasi, Sepehr Salehi, Amir Raoufi, Ehsan Maleki, Milad Kiadi, Farzad Shokri, Abolfazl Shadfar, Moein Maleki, and Yazdan Bakhti. These arrests took place on December 31 and January 1.

The chief justices of Lorestan and Isfahan provinces also announced that a number of protesting citizens were arrested in recent days in the counties of Azna, Delfan, and Isfahan.

In the same context, a channel close to security institutions published two separate videos of forced confessions by a detained citizen in Amol. In these videos, whose recording conditions are unclear, a young man with a fully visible face expresses remorse for publishing calls for protests. The same channel also released a video of the arrest of a citizen on January 2 in Khorramabad, claiming that weapons and ammunition were discovered in his possession. According to the report, this arrest was carried out by agents of the Abolfazl Corps of the IRGC in Lorestan Province.

State broadcaster IRIB also released videos containing forced confessions of several citizens, announcing their arrest during protests in Kermanshah. At least four citizens can be seen in these videos. Mehr News Agency likewise published a video of a forced confession by a citizen arrested yesterday on Motahhari Street in Khorramabad; the circumstances under which these videos were recorded remain unknown.

Subsequently, the Public and Revolutionary Prosecutor of Izeh once again announced the arrest of a number of citizens during last night’s protests in the city.

Meanwhile, Tasnim News Agency reported that several protesters were arrested during demonstrations in Qazvin on charges described as belonging to “saboteur elements.” According to the agency, one individual allegedly involved in publishing protest calls online was also arrested.

HRANA has also learned that on December 31 and January 1, a number of citizens in Gorgan were arrested for publishing calls for protests.

The Public and Revolutionary Prosecutor of Hamedan also announced today the arrest of several citizens during protests in the city, without providing details regarding their identities or the exact timing of their arrests.

Ashraf Montazeri, daughter of Ayatollah Montazeri, stated that her daughter and grandchild were arrested during street protests and released after one day on bail.

Fars News Agency also reported the arrest of a citizen in Isfahan, claiming that he “intended to join the gathering with a handgun and carry out anti-security and sabotage actions.” According to the outlet, the arrest took place on Thursday, January 1.

Additionally, media outlets close to security institutions, without naming individuals, reported the arrest of three citizens, including a teenager, in the cities of Isfahan, Khorramabad, and Amol during the ongoing protests.

In the final hours of today, the Public Relations Office of the Rouhollah Corps of the IRGC in Markazi Province announced the arrest of the administrators of two Telegram channels in the cities of Saveh and Arak, claiming that these channels played a role in the “management and direction of protesters.”

Meanwhile, Amirkabir Newsletter reported that Amirhossein Keshavarz, a student activist, was arrested by security forces. According to the report, agents went to his residence today, arrested him, and transferred him to an unknown location.

Reactions

As nationwide protests entered their sixth day, officials of the Islamic Republic and media outlets affiliated with official and security institutions, alongside continued on-the-ground repression, have sought to reinforce a dominant narrative centered on “foreign interference” and “national security,” while sidelining protesters’ demands.

At the political level, Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s foreign minister, reacting to support expressed by Donald Trump for protesters, described the stance as “irresponsible and dangerous,” claiming that such statements target Iran’s sovereignty and that the Islamic Republic’s armed forces are “ready to respond.” At the same time, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of Parliament, and Alireza Salimi, a member of the parliamentary presidium, issued threatening warnings that any “foreign interference” would be met with a “regret-inducing” response.

In this context, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council sent a letter to domestic media outlets, urging them to condemn Trump’s support for protesters and, by drawing a “clear line with the enemy,” refrain from what it described as “raw, emotional, or tension-inducing dissemination.” The council also praised media outlets that it said had “contributed to stability,” reflecting intensified control and guidance of the media narrative on the sixth day of protests.

In the judicial and security sphere, officials such as Saeed Shahvarai, Chief Justice of Lorestan Province, announced the arrest of protesters in cities including Azna and Delfan, without providing transparent details regarding charges or judicial procedures. At the same time, some pro-government religious figures, including Hossein Nouri Hamedani, while implicitly acknowledging economic pressures, sought to reduce the roots of the crisis to “mismanagement” and avoided linking the protests to the political structure.

At the international level, Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed concern over developments in Iran, stating that reports of violence against protesters are being followed “closely,” and called on Iranian authorities to respect citizens’ fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. This position was expressed amid numerous reports of shootings, arrests, and an intense security atmosphere across various Iranian cities.

State-affiliated media, in their coverage of the sixth day, focused on emphasizing external threats, warning the United States and Israel, and promoting the narrative that protests are being directed by “hostile groups”—a narrative that does not align with field evidence or the breadth of protesters’ demands.

Conclusion

The ongoing protests, which began in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, entered their sixth day with expanded geographic scope, increased public participation, and an intensified presence of security forces. The combination of livelihood and political demands, the rise in arrests, and officials’ efforts to simultaneously contain the crisis through economic and security measures reflect the authorities’ high sensitivity to the continuation of these protests.

HRANA continues to collect, verify, and complete information related to these protests and will publish supplementary reports should the gatherings persist or expand.

Two Citizens, Including a Teenager, Arrested in Gachsaran and Yasuj

Posted on January 2, 2026January 2, 2026 by . .

Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

Fardin Moslemi, Gachsaran, IRGC Intelligence, Mahan Khoobani, Yasuj

HRANA – During protests in the cities of Gachsaran and Yasuj, two citizens, including a teenager, were arrested by security forces and transferred to an unknown location.

Their identities have been confirmed by HRANA as Fardin Moslemi and Mahan Khoobani, 16 years old, from Yasuj.

Based on information received by HRANA, Mr. Fardin Moslemi was arrested in the early hours of Friday, January 2, 2026, by IRGC Intelligence forces in the city of Gachsaran. Mahan Khoobani was also arrested yesterday in Yasuj by security agents.

As of now, there is no information regarding the whereabouts of these protesting citizens.

It is worth noting that Fardin Moslemi Asl, a resident of Dehdasht County, had previously been summoned on December 13, 2025, to Branch Three of the Investigative Prosecutor’s Office of Boyer-Ahmad County.

It should also be noted that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants, which began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, expanded beyond bazaars and commercial centers starting Tuesday, December 30, 2025. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests have become one of the most widespread demonstrations in recent years. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the fifth day of protests, published late last night.

Detailed Report on Five Days of Protests: Expansion of Gatherings and Violence

During the first five days of protests and strikes in Iran, at least 119 citizens have been arrested, seven people have been killed, and at least 33 others injured. These protests, which began in Tehran, have spread over this period to at least 32 cities across various provinces.

Posted on January 1, 2026January 2, 2026 by . .

Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

Abolfazl Marvati, Ahmad Jalil, Ali Hassan-Bikian, Alireza Hammami, Amirhesam Khodayari-Fard, Amirhossein Gholizadeh, Aref Hadi-Nejad, Bazaar protest, Dariush Ansari Bakhtiarvand, Elnaz Kari, Hassan Mousavi, HRANA, Mani Eydi, Mehdi Beik, Mobin Aminian, Sajjad Valamanesh, Serira Karimi, Shahin Shokouhi, Tehran’s Grand Bazaar

HRANA – During the first five days of protests and strikes in Iran, at least 119 citizens have been arrested, seven people have been killed, and at least 33 others injured. These protests, which began in Tehran, have spread over this period to at least 32 cities across various provinces. Alongside labor strikes and street gatherings, they have been marked by an escalation in security crackdowns, the use of weapons, and widespread pressure against protesters.

Protests that began on Sunday, December 28, with strikes and gatherings by bazaar merchants in Tehran continued today, Thursday, January 1, for a fifth consecutive day. As livelihood-related discontent persists, the security atmosphere has intensified in some cities, and security forces crackdowns against protesting citizens have taken on broader dimensions.

Background of the Protests

The protests of the past five days in Iran are rooted in a deep and structural crisis spanning economic conditions, livelihoods, and governance. Over recent months, this crisis has accelerated, manifesting in the continuous devaluation of the national currency, an unprecedented surge in foreign exchange rates, rising inflation, widespread market stagnation, and a sharp decline in citizens’ purchasing power. Under these conditions, many tradespeople and economic actors have reported an inability to cover operating costs, continue their activities, or maintain even minimal profitability.

According to data and reports published in the days leading up to the protests, the U.S. dollar in the open market reached approximately 140,000 tomans. This occurred alongside capital outflows from the stock market, a sharp drop in market indices, and increased movement of capital toward parallel markets such as currency and gold. Economic observers have assessed these developments as signs of widespread distrust in economic stability and the country’s future outlook.

Within this context, the Tehran bazaar strike on the first day of protests quickly spread to other professional sectors and geographic areas. Over the second to fourth days, the protests continued in the form of street gatherings, marches, shop strikes, and the participation of groups of students at some universities. At the same time, responses by law enforcement and security institutions included increased troop deployment, on-the-ground control of urban spaces, confrontations with protesters, and the arrest of citizens—a trend that, according to reports, continued and intensified on the fifth day as well.

Geography of the Protests

Information collected by HRANA indicates that on the fifth day of protests, protest gatherings and labor strikes were reported in the following cities and locations:

In Tehran, protest gatherings and activities were reported in the vicinity of the Fruit and Vegetable Market. This city, where the protests first began with the Tehran bazaar strike, has continuously witnessed various forms of protests, strikes, and a heavy presence of security forces over the past five days in areas including the Tehran Bazaar, Lalehzar Street, Valiasr Street, Yaftabad neighborhood, Imam Khomeini Street intersection, Jomhouri Street, Ferdowsi Street, Sabounian Street, Shadabad Street, Bani Hashem Street, Mollasadra Street, Khayyam Street, the Fruit and Vegetable Market, Qods City, and Malard.

In Fars Province, on the fifth day, protest gatherings by citizens were recorded in the cities of Marvdasht, Kavar, and Osan. In previous days, the province had also witnessed protests in Fasa (in front of the Governor’s Office), Shiraz, and Nurabad-e Mamasani.

In Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, protests were reported in two cities. In Lordegan, protesters gathered from Municipality Square to in front of the Governor’s Office, where, according to reports, law enforcement forces used tear gas. Protest activities were also recorded in the city of Junqan.

In Hamedan Province, the continuation of strikes and protests was reported in the city of Hamedan, which had also been among the active protest locations in previous days.

The city of Babol, in Mazandaran Province, also witnessed public protests on the fifth day.

In Isfahan Province, shopkeepers’ strikes and protest gatherings took place in the city of Isfahan, while protesters held demonstrations in Shahin Shahr on the fifth day. During the second to fourth days, protests had also been reported in other parts of Isfahan Province, including Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the Ahmadabad neighborhood, Yakhchal Street, Fuladshahr, and Najafabad.

A review of the data shows that over five consecutive days, the protests have spread beyond Tehran to numerous provinces and cities. According to HRANA, the following cities and areas also witnessed protests, gatherings, or strikes during the first to fourth days: Isfahan, Fasa, Kuhdasht, Aligudarz, Dorud, Genaveh, Baghmalek, Hamedan, Kermanshah (Nobahar Street), Shiraz, Sabzevar, Zanjan, Qeshm, Yazd, Arak, Nurabad-e Mamasani, Fuladshahr, Najafabad, Qods City, and Malard. The continuation of protests on the fifth day reflects both the temporal continuity and geographic expansion of these protest activities across the country.

Universities Join the Protests and Student Demonstrations

Alongside street gatherings and labor strikes, universities have also played a significant role as centers of protest during the past five days. Based on recorded information, student activities began at the University of Tehran on the second day of protests. By the third day, these protests had expanded to University of Tehran, Shahid Beheshti University, Kharazmi University, Sharif University of Technology, Iran University of Science and Technology, Amirkabir University of Technology, University of Science and Culture, Isfahan University of Technology, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Yazd University, and University of Zanjan.

On the fourth day, reports were also published regarding the continuation of student activities at Isfahan University of Technology and at the Shahid Beheshti University dormitory in the Velenjak area. Among these, Isfahan University of Technology was identified as one of the main centers of student protests. Published videos show students holding gatherings, marching, and chanting protest slogans on campus. These activities took place simultaneously with labor strikes and street protests in the city of Isfahan.

Although no separate reports of new student gatherings were recorded on the fifth day, available data indicate that university protests formed part of the broader five-day protest movement and emerged from the same economic and social grievances. The continued security presence around universities and the heightened sensitivity of law enforcement and security institutions toward these spaces have been reported as consistent features over recent days.

Methods of Protest and Slogans

According to information compiled by HRANA, the protests continued into their fifth day, taking the form of a combination of labor strikes, protest gatherings, and street marches. The strike by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants, which began on the first day of the protests in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, expanded to other cities in the following days and continued on the fifth day in a number of urban centers and local markets. Shop closures, refusal to engage in economic activity, and calls on other professional groups to join the strike were among the most prominent methods of protest during this period.

Alongside labor strikes, street gatherings and short protest marches were reported in various parts of cities. These gatherings were often sporadic and highly mobile, aimed at reducing direct confrontation with security forces. In many cases, protesters dispersed after chanting slogans, leaving the area before extensive intervention by security forces. In some cities, protests were also reported in front of government buildings, including governorates.

Based on reviews of videos and verified reports from the first five days of protests, the slogans chanted were largely focused on livelihood, economic, and political demands rooted in citizens’ fundamental rights. These slogans included criticism of the power structure, objections to restrictions on individual and social freedoms, demands for justice, and opposition to the prevailing economic and living conditions.

Actions by Law Enforcement–Security Forces and Details of Violence

Reports received from the fifth day of protests indicate the continued and intensified presence of law enforcement and security forces in various urban areas. In Tehran and several provincial capitals, the deployment of riot control units, police vehicles, and plainclothes agents in squares, main streets, and around sensitive locations was reported. This widespread presence followed the pattern of the previous four days and aimed at controlling gatherings and preventing the spread of protests.

In some cities, confrontations between law enforcement–security forces and protesters led to the use of tear gas and crowd-control tools. For example, in Lordegan, a gathering of citizens between Municipality Square and the Governor’s Office was met with tear gas fired by law enforcement forces, resulting in the dispersal of protesters and the establishment of a heavy security atmosphere in the area.

In previous days, reports also documented gunfire toward protesters, physical assaults, and the pursuit of citizens. One such case occurred in Fasa, where on the fourth day of protests, clashes between law enforcement–security forces and protesters in front of the Governor’s Office escalated into violence. Images published from that day showed security forces firing at protesters. Similarly, in Kermanshah, at Mossadegh Square and in the Dabir-e Azam neighborhood, law enforcement and security forces opened fire on protesters. According to informed HRANA sources, officers in the city used pellet guns against protesting citizens. Local officials later denied the use of live ammunition, stating that plastic or pellet bullets had been employed.

On the fifth day of protests, reports indicate that law enforcement–security forces used gunfire and tear gas to disperse protesters in Nahavand. In Kuhdasht, officers used pellet weapons to scatter demonstrators. In addition, in the city of Osan, reports indicate that a group of individuals gathered in front of a police headquarters, after which clashes broke out between protesters and officers, resulting in the killing of three people and the injury of 17 others. Both cold weapons and firearms were reportedly used during these clashes.

Over the past five days, there have also been reports of citizens being arrested by plainclothes agents in public spaces and markets. In some videos, citizens can be heard describing attempts by security forces to detain protesters and calling on others to intervene to prevent the arrests. In many of these cases, precise information regarding the timing and identity of the arresting forces is not available; however, the reported behavior aligns with previously documented security practices.

Overall, these findings indicate that the response of law enforcement and security forces to the recent five days of protests has gone beyond on-the-ground control and the creation of a security atmosphere, and in numerous instances has involved the use of repressive measures, physical violence, and restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly.

Arrests, Victims, and Other Security Pressures

According to reports compiled by HRANA, the recent five days of protests have been accompanied by a significant increase in arrests, the deaths of protesters, injuries, and the application of various security pressures across different parts of the country. The information presented in this section is based on documented data and includes names, numbers, locations, and the current status of those affected.

Arrests:

During the first five days of the protests, at least 119 citizens were arrested in 24 separate incidents across multiple provinces and cities. This figure includes both individual and group arrests.

Individual Arrests with Identified Identities:

• Mehdi Beik, journalist, arrested in Tehran – released
• Abolfazl Marvati, student at Sharif University of Technology, arrested in Tehran (Azadi Street) – released
• Shahin Shokouhi, student at the University of Tehran, arrested in Tehran (Enghelab Street) – released
• Aref Hadi-Nejad, student at the University of Tehran, arrested in Tehran (Enghelab Street) – released
• Mobin Aminian, student, arrested in Tehran – released
• Mani Eydi, student, arrested in Tehran – released
• Amirhossein Gholizadeh, student, arrested in Tehran – released
• Hassan Mousavi, student, arrested in Tehran – released
• Serira Karimi, student, arrested in Tehran – released
• Ali Hassan-Bikian, student, arrested in Tehran
• Alireza Hammami, student, arrested in Tehran
• Elnaz Kari, arrested in Tehran – held in Evin Prison
• Negar Ghanbari, arrested in Tehran – held in Evin Prison
• Helena Rostami, arrested in Tehran – held in Evin Prison
• Masoumeh Nouri, arrested in Tehran – held in Evin Prison
• Fatemeh Hashem Pour, arrested in Tehran – held in Evin Prison
• Aida (surname unknown), arrested in Tehran – held in Evin Prison

in Khuzestan Province:

• Soltan Emamkhah, resident of Behbahan, arrested for issuing a protest call – released
• Amir Mehdi Razm, resident of Behbahan
• Abolfazl Jafsh, resident of Behbahan
• Abolfazl Ashnoud, resident of Behbahan

in Isfahan Province:

• Mahshad Keshani, resident of Isfahan, arrested on Qaemieh Street

Unidentified and Group Arrests:

• 11 citizens arrested in Tehran, Shoush Square, Sabounian Street
• 4 citizens arrested in Fasa, Fars Province, during protests in front of the Governor’s Office
• 7 citizens with unidentified identities (exact city and location not confirmed)
• 1 citizen with unidentified identity arrested in Tehran (Tehran Bazaar)
• 20 citizens arrested in Kuhdasht
• 7 citizens arrested in Kermanshah
• 14 citizens arrested in Alborz Province
• 1 citizen arrested in Isfahan (Qaemieh Street)
• 1 citizen arrested in Khorramabad
• 30 citizens arrested in Malard

In several cases, the place of transfer following arrest and the current legal status of detainees remain unknown. Additional information is under review and verification.

Victims:

During the fifth day of protests, at least seven citizens lost their lives. Details are as follows:

• Amirhesam Khodayari-Fard, civilian (Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht). Security institutions have claimed he was affiliated with the Basij, while local sources have identified him as a protester.
• Dariush Ansari Bakhtiarvand, civilian (Isfahan Province, Fuladshahr)
• Sajjad Valamanesh and Ahmad Jalil (Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, Lordegan, in the area between Municipality Square and the Governor’s Office)
• Three citizens with unidentified identities (Fars Province, Osan, at a police headquarters)

Precise details regarding the circumstances of these deaths are still under verification.

Injuries and Other Security Pressures:

According to compiled reports, over the five days of protests, at least 33 cases of injury were recorded. These injuries were mainly caused by the use of tear gas, beatings, and crowd-control tools. In many cases, the identities of the injured individuals remain unknown.

Authorities in the cities of Fasa and Kuhdasht claimed that 16 of the injured in these cities were members of law enforcement–security forces.

Additionally, during the protests, Fariba Fereydouni, a resident of Khomein in Markazi Province, was summoned by the Ministry of Intelligence via phone on the third day of protests. The reason for the summons was cited as “publishing content related to the protests on social media.” She has not yet complied with the summons.

Beyond these cases, reports have been received of telephone or in-person threats, forced written commitments, security forces appearing at citizens’ residences, and pressure after release, indicating the continuation of security pressure outside the framework of formal detention.

Overall, these data indicate that the recent five days of protests have been accompanied by a broad pattern of human rights violations, including mass arrests, the deaths of citizens, injuries to protesters, and simultaneous security pressures. HRANA continues to collect, cross-check, and verify additional information and will publish updated reports should new data become available.

Reactions of Officials and State Media

In response to the recent five days of protests, government officials and media outlets close to security institutions have presented narratives aligned with the securitization of the protests, reducing them to so-called “riots,” while attempting to downplay the scale of repression and its human consequences.

Fars News Agency and Tasnim News Agency, both affiliated with security institutions and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, described protesters as “rioters” and claimed the protests involved “sabotage.” Fars reported the killing of two people during the Lordegan protests, stating that demonstrators had thrown stones at government buildings and that police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. The outlet also described the city’s situation as “calm.”

Tasnim News Agency reported the arrest of seven individuals in Kermanshah, claiming they intended to turn the protests violent and were affiliated with opposition groups abroad—claims made without independent evidence.

At the executive level, Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian, Governor of Tehran Province, stated that bazaar protests had been “managed in cooperation with FARAJA” and described law enforcement policy as one of “restraint.” He claimed confrontations occurred only in limited cases due to “disruption of public order” and that the city was being steered toward calm.

Meanwhile, Fatemeh Mohajerani, the government spokesperson, called on governors to hold meetings with representatives of guilds and bazaar merchants to facilitate “direct dialogue.” These remarks were made despite widespread reports of arrests, deaths, and violent برخورد with protesters.

Separately, Mohammad Saleh Jokar, head of the Majles Internal Affairs and Councils Commission, announced that following recent events, the review of the “Gatherings and Marches Bill” would be prioritized, legislation previously criticized by observers as a tool to restrict the right to peaceful assembly.

In the academic sphere, the Educational Vice Presidency of the University of Tehran announced that classes and exams would be held online until 18 Dey, citing “cold weather and energy imbalances.” This decision was made amid continued student protests and a heightened security atmosphere around universities.

Summary and Final Assessment of the Fifth Day

Protests that began with a bazaar strike in Tehran have, by their fifth day, evolved into a broad movement encompassing labor, livelihood, political, and student dimensions. The geographic expansion of protests, continued strikes, participation of universities, and repetition of political slogans reflect the depth of public dissatisfaction with economic conditions, the devaluation of the national currency, and the lack of livelihood prospects.

In contrast, the authorities’ response has largely focused on security-based crisis management, increased arrests, multilayered pressure, and media narrative-building. The documentation of at least 119 arrests, seven deaths, and dozens of injuries over five days underscores the heavy human cost borne by protesting citizens. At the same time, official efforts to label the protests as “riots” and to advance unsubstantiated claims about protesters’ affiliations stand in clear contrast to the scope of demands and the social composition of the movement.

HRANA continues to collect, verify, and cross-check information related to the protests, arrests, deaths, and other human rights violations, and will publish supplementary and updated reports should the protests continue or expand.

Report on the Fourth Day of Protests: Expansion of Gatherings and Intensification of the Security Atmosphere

Posted on January 1, 2026January 1, 2026 by . .

Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

Aligudarz, Baghmalek, Bazaar, Dorud, Fasa, Genaveh, Hamedan, HRANA, Isfahan, Kermanshah, Kuhdasht

HRANA – Economic protests and strikes in Iran continued for a fourth consecutive day, marked by a heavy security presence in Tehran and protest gatherings by citizens in other cities, including Isfahan, Fasa, Kuhdasht, Hamedan, Aligudarz, Genaveh, Dorud, Baghmalek, and Kermanshah. Reports indicate the continued widespread deployment of law enforcement and security forces in urban areas, ongoing arrests of citizens, an intensified security atmosphere, gunfire, and violent confrontation in some locations.

Protests that began on the first day with gatherings and strikes by bazaar merchants in Tehran were reported yesterday, December 31, on their fourth day, accompanied by a security clampdown in some Tehran neighborhoods and protest gatherings in several provinces.

Background of the Protests

The ongoing protests have taken shape amid a deepening and multifaceted economic crisis in Iran, marked by an unprecedented surge in foreign exchange rates, the sharp devaluation of the national currency, persistent inflation, prolonged market stagnation, declining purchasing power, the growing inability of tradespeople to sustain economic activity, and widespread uncertainty over future livelihoods.

According to official data, the U.S. dollar has surpassed 140,000 tomans in recent days, alongside reports of massive capital flight from the stock market. A sharp decline in market indices and the movement of capital toward parallel markets such as currency and gold are cited as signs of growing distrust in economic stability. This situation has led to widespread shop closures, market strikes, and the formation of protest gatherings across the country.

Geography of the Protests

Based on collected information, videos published on the fourth day show the deployment of riot control forces and equipment and crowd-control measures on Valiasr Street, the intersection of Imam Khomeini Street in Tehran, and streets in the city of Qods.

In the provinces, protests continued to spread. Reports indicate gatherings in front of the Fasa County Governor’s Office on Jomhouri Street, at Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, as well as in Kuhdasht, Nobahar Street in Kermanshah, Aligudarz, Dorud, Genaveh, Baghmalek, and Hamedan. A video published from Kuhdasht shows confrontations between protesters and law enforcement and security forces. Additionally, shopkeepers in Ahmadabad Square and Yakhchal Street in Isfahan refused to carry out their activities and went on strike.

Universities Join In and Student Protests

On the fourth day of protests, published videos showed the continuation of student protests at Isfahan University of Technology for a second consecutive day. The footage shows a group of students marching and chanting slogans on the university campus.

Methods of Protest and Slogans

The fourth day of protests featured a combination of labor strikes, gatherings, and street marches. Bazaar merchants played a central role in sustaining the protests by closing their shops and calling on other tradespeople to strike. According to verified videos, slogans such as “Death to the dictator,” “Honorable bazaar merchants, support, support,” “Woman, Life, Freedom,” and “Man, Homeland, Prosperity” were heard in various locations.

Actions by Law Enforcement and Details of Violence

Reports indicate that in several areas, law enforcement and security forces used tear gas to disperse protesters. In Fasa County, citizens’ protests escalated into violence following the intervention of law enforcement and security forces. Published images show officers firing toward protesters. The head of the Fasa judiciary stated that three law enforcement officers were injured.

Arrests and Security Pressure

During last night’s protests and yesterday’s demonstrations, at least 16 citizens were arrested. HRANA reported the arrests of Sultan Emamkhah, Amir Mehdi Razm, Abolfazl Jafsh, and Abolfazl Ashnoud in Behbahan County for issuing a call for citizens to participate in protests. Among them, Sultan Emamkhah has been released. Tasnim News Agency also quoted an informed source at the Ministry of Intelligence as saying that seven citizens had been arrested, claiming that “these individuals were affiliated with opposition groups and intended to turn the protests violent.”

Additionally, the head of the Fasa judiciary stated that during clashes between law enforcement and security forces and protesters in front of the county governor’s office, four protesting citizens were arrested. Some channels close to security institutions reported that one of those arrested was a 27-year-old woman.

Separately, a video circulating on social media shows the person filming reporting the arrest of a citizen by plainclothes security forces in Tehran’s bazaar and calling on others to intervene to prevent the arrest. No information is available regarding when the video was recorded.

Reactions of Officials and State Media

In response to the protests, Mehr News Agency described the gathering of citizens in Fasa County as a “riot” and claimed in a report that no military weapons were used in suppressing the protesters, declaring the situation in Fasa to be calm. The official Sabrin News channel also claimed that officers used launcher weapons with plastic pellet ammunition to disperse individuals near the governor’s office.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Tehran Province claimed that the police’s policy had been one of restraint and that citizens had not been arrested for protesting. Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian asserted that police actions were taken only in limited cases following road blockages and minor clashes, and that no precise assessment of the number of detainees had yet been compiled.

In Conclusion

Protests that began in Tehran’s bazaar, on their fourth day, have been marked by geographic expansion, increased citizen participation, and an intensified presence of security forces. The combination of livelihood and political demands, rising arrests, and officials’ efforts to simultaneously manage the crisis through economic and security measures underscore the authorities’ heightened sensitivity to the continuation of these protests.

HRANA continues to collect, verify, and complete information related to these protests and will publish follow-up reports should the gatherings continue or expand.

Three Teachers Arrested by Security Forces in Shiraz

Posted on December 31, 2025 by . .

Freedom of Expression, Labor and Guilds, News

Shiraz, Zaker Amini

HRANA – Today, December 31, three teachers, one of whom has been identified as Zaker Amini, were arrested by security forces during a teachers’ protest gathering in Shiraz.

The identities of two of the arrested teachers have been reported by the Coordinating Council of Iranian Teachers’ Trade Associations as Zaker Amini and another individual whose first name is unknown (last name Hejbari).

The arrests took place today during a protest gathering by teachers in front of the Shiraz Department of Education.

The report further states that several other teachers were also detained during today’s gathering but were released after receiving warnings.

As of the time of this report, no information has been obtained regarding the location of detention, the reasons for the arrests, or the charges brought against these three teachers.

Background of the Protests

Geography of the Protests

Forms of Protest and Slogans

Conduct of Law Enforcement and Security Forces and Details of Violence

Deaths and Injuries

Security Forces’ Raids on Medical Centers: Attacks on Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam and Sina Hospital in Tehran

Arrests

International Reactions

Reaction of Iranian Government Officials

Domestic Reactions (Civil Society, Labor Groups, and Public Figures)

Individually Identified Arrests on the Tenth Day

Collective or Unidentified Arrests on the Tenth Day: Based on Media Reports or HRANA Field Investigations

In Conclusion

Background of the Protests

Geography of the Protests

Methods of Protest and Slogans

Conduct of Law Enforcement-Security Forces and Details of Violence

Fatalities

Arrests and Security Pressures

Reactions

Conclusion

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Background to the Protests

Geography of the Protests

Methods of Protest and Slogans

Conduct of Law Enforcement-Security Forces and Details of Violence

Arrests and Security Pressures

Reactions

Conclusion

HRANA – During protests in the cities of Gachsaran and Yasuj, two citizens, including a teenager, were arrested by security forces and transferred to an unknown location.

Background of the Protests

Geography of the Protests

Universities Join the Protests and Student Demonstrations

Methods of Protest and Slogans

Actions by Law Enforcement–Security Forces and Details of Violence

Arrests, Victims, and Other Security Pressures

Reactions of Officials and State Media

Summary and Final Assessment of the Fifth Day

HRANA – Today, December 31, three teachers, one of whom has been identified as Zaker Amini, were arrested by security forces during a teachers’ protest gathering in Shiraz.