At the start of 2026, Iran is rocked by its largest protests since 2022. It all kicked off in late December when merchants in Tehran shut their shops after the rial plunged to a record low of 1.42 million per dollar. That free-fall, paired with sky-high prices, ignited a countrywide uprising that's now sweeping most provinces. 🔥
What's fueling the fury? 💥
In a nutshell, a mix of economic collapse, runaway inflation, and even drought has pushed everyday Iranians to the brink:
- Rial crash: From around 820,000 in 2024 to 1.4–1.5 million per $ by January 2026
- Inflation hit 52% year-on-year in December 2025, eroding paychecks
- Full-time wages average just over $100/month—barely enough for basics
- Drought and water shortages worsening job and food security
Who's calling the shots? 👀
Experts point fingers at both domestic policy failures and external pressure:
- Wang Jin from Northwest University of China says chronic inflation and failed reforms set the stage.
- Tang Zhichao of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences credits U.S. sanctions—Washington's "maximum pressure" has cut Iran off from global markets.
Will the US step in? 🤔
So far, Washington’s toolkit has mostly been economic sanctions—there’s no sign of direct military intervention on the horizon. But as unrest grows, all eyes are on whether the U.S. tweaks its stance or ramps up diplomatic pressure. Any big move could reshape regional dynamics and global energy markets. 🌍
What’s next? 🚀
With security forces clashing in multiple cities and dozens reported dead, Iran faces a critical moment. Will this wave of protests force real change in Tehran? And could international players like the U.S. pivot from sanctions to support—or something more? Stay tuned as this story unfolds. ✌️
Reference(s):
As protests intensify across Iran, will U.S. eventually intervene?
cgtn.com
