Iran Protests Erupt Over Economic Crisis, At Least Three Killed

Tehran, Jan 2, 2026 — Widespread protests have erupted across Iran in response to worsening economic conditions, leaving at least three people dead and 17 others injured, according to Iranian media reports cited by Reuters.
The demonstrations began with shopkeepers protesting the sharp depreciation of Iran’s national currency and soaring prices of essential goods. The unrest quickly expanded as members of the general public joined the protests, which spread to multiple provinces across the country.
Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency reported that three protesters were killed in the western province of Lorestan during an attack on a police station. The incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. local time on Thursday when protesters attempted to enter police headquarters, triggering clashes with security forces. Several police vehicles were set on fire during the confrontation, Fars said.
In a separate report, Fars stated that two people were killed in clashes between security forces and what it described as “armed protesters” in the city of Lordegan. Earlier, the agency had indicated that the death toll could be higher.
Meanwhile, the Norway-based Kurdish human rights group Hengaw claimed that several protesters were killed and injured by security forces during the unrest, though independent verification of the casualty figures was not possible.
Reuters said it could not independently confirm the number of deaths and injuries.
Analysts say Iran’s growing public anger is fueled by prolonged economic pressure, rapid currency devaluation, and a steep rise in the cost of living, deepening frustration among ordinary citizens amid ongoing financial instability.