Iran is in the middle of widespread nationwide protests that began in late December 2025, driven by crushing economic hardship and anger at political repression. The state response has been severe, authorities have cut off internet and phone access across large parts of the country to block reporting and coordination, while security forces have used lethal force and carried out mass arrests, according to major human rights organizations.

At the same time, the economy keeps deteriorating, the rial has hit new lows and many people feel their wages are being erased by inflation, with a mix of sanctions and deep structural problems, including the IRGC’s huge footprint in the economy, often blamed for corruption and distortion.