12.01.2026 22:14
Protests that began due to the economic problems faced by citizens in Iran have spread across the country. It has been reported that many lives were lost as a result of the security forces' harsh intervention against the protesters, while in the demonstrations that took place in the city of Rasht, located in Gilan province, more than 300 shops were set on fire. While the material damage to shopkeepers is significant, officials have promised reconstruction.
It has been reported that more than 300 shops were set on fire during the protests in the city of Rasht, located in Gilan province of Iran.
PROTESTS IN IRAN ESCALATE Protests that began due to the uncontrollable decline of the local currency against foreign exchange rates and the rising cost of living have spread across the country in waves. The protests, which have been ongoing for weeks, have turned the country into a battlefield, with violent clashes between the public and security forces.
MORE THAN 300 SHOPS BURNED Iranian state television broadcast images of the shops that burned in Rasht Bazaar three days ago. It was reported that more than 300 shops were burned in Rasht and that the financial damage to the shopkeepers was significant. While firefighting teams are still working on cooling in some shops, Gilan Governor Hadi Hakshinas, who is inspecting the area, stated that they will rebuild Rasht Bazaar.
Shopkeepers, who want their damages to be compensated, are urging Iranian officials to take steps for financial assistance as soon as possible.
PROTESTS IN IRAN Protests initiated by shopkeepers in Tehran Grand Bazaar on December 28, 2025, due to the significant devaluation of the local currency against foreign currencies and economic issues, spread to many cities across the country. While there has been no official statement regarding the dead or injured in the protests, the Iran Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported in a report published on January 11 (on the 15th day of the protests) that 544 people, including 37 security personnel and one prosecutor, as well as 8 children (under 18 years old), lost their lives, and 10,681 people were detained.
Tehran Mayor Ali Reza Zakani stated on January 8 that protesters caused extensive damage to public and private properties, mentioning that 42 public vehicles, including municipal buses and fire trucks, as well as 24 houses, 25 mosques, 2 hospitals, and 26 banks were destroyed. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that 80 ambulances and 53 mosques were burned during the protests across the country.