Protests against Iran’s regime entered their 13th day on January 9, 2026. Demonstrations spread across more than 100 cities, with tens of thousands rallying in Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan. Protesters chanted “Death to the dictator” and “Pahlavi will return.” Reza Pahlavi, exiled son of the former shah, called for larger crowds and endorsed the unrest.
The economic woes in Iran sparked these rallies. This includes currency collapse and high prices of daily items. Merchants were the first to strike in late December, and the strike has now spread nationwide.
Security forces fired on crowds to contain the protest. Rights groups report 34 to 62 deaths, including children, and over 2,270 arrests. Iranian state media confirmed some security forces’personnels deaths and blamed it on the “terrorist agents” backed by the US and Israel.
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei called protesters “vandals” and vowed no retreat. Judiciary chief promised “decisive” action without mercy. Iranian authorities cut the internet nationwide, which lasted over 12 hours. Even the international calls were blocked.
There were also counter-rallies supporting the regime streamed on State TV.
US President Donald Trump pledged aid if protesters face violence. Khamenei urged him to fix the US issues first.
