Iran Protests Spread Beyond Major Cities as Deadly Clashes Reported in Rural Provinces
Protests driven by Iran’s deepening economic crisis spread Thursday into rural provinces, with at least six people reported killed in clashes between demonstrators and security forces — the first confirmed wave of fatalities since the unrest began, according to Iranian authorities and state-linked media reports. Reuters+2AP News+2
The deaths mark a potentially sharper phase of the government’s response as demonstrations appear to have slowed in Tehran but expanded elsewhere, particularly in areas with large populations from Iran’s Lur ethnic group. AP News+1
What we know so far
Iranian and international reporting indicates fatalities were recorded across multiple cities, including Azna in Lorestan province and Lordegan in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, amid escalating street clashes. Reuters+1
Footage shared online from some areas showed fires in the streets and crowds chanting as gunfire echoed in the background, though officials have not provided full details on each incident. New Hampshire Public Radio+1
Why the protests erupted
The demonstrations have been linked to a worsening cost-of-living crisis, with the Iranian rial weakening sharply and inflation remaining high. Reuters reported the protests began with shopkeepers reacting to currency devaluation and prices, spreading to students and merchants as anger grew. Reuters
Biggest unrest since 2022 — but not yet nationwide
Analysts and media outlets have described the current wave as the largest unrest since 2022, when the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody triggered nationwide protests. However, multiple reports note that the current demonstrations have not (so far) reached the same nationwide intensity as the 2022 movement. New Hampshire Public Radio+1
What could happen next
The appearance of confirmed deaths may signal a tougher crackdown in the days ahead. Iranian officials have warned against vandalism and violence, while security forces have carried out arrests and heavy deployments in past unrest. The Wall Street Journal+1
This is a developing story, and casualty figures may change as more reporting and official statements emerge. AP News+1