Nationwide protests in Iran, sparked by economic woes in late December 2025, have escalated into anti-government uprisings across cities like Tehran, leading to violent clashes, an internet blackout, and at least 45 protester deaths. Demonstrators set fire to a key government-military building in Tehran amid chants of “Long live the Shah,” signaling deep opposition to the regime. State TV blames “terrorist agents” from the US and Israel, while security forces, including IRGC units, struggle to contain crowds that have torched offices, buses, and symbols of authority in places like Varamin and Lordegan. The unrest, now in its 12th day, stems from merchant strikes in Tehran and has spread despite crackdowns, with reports of seized IRGC centers and burned seminaries in areas like Farsan. Protesters demand regime change, echoing calls for the return of monarchical rule, as the government warns of rising casualties and deploys heavier forces to quell the flames.
