Protests Spread in Iran, and Crackdowns Escalate

Strikes and protests have expanded across several major Iranian cities, including Tehran, Tabriz, Isfahan, Mashhad, and Kerman, as of Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The demonstrations, driven by anger over the country's economic crisis and declining currency, have led to the closure of bazaars, significant economic hubs. Iranian security forces have responded with increased crackdowns, including the use of tear gas and violence against protesters in locations like the Tehran bazaar and its metro station. The head of the judiciary has threatened to intensify prosecutions against demonstrators. Despite government mediation efforts, shops in Tehran's bazaar have remained closed for eleven days, reflecting ongoing solidarity among shopkeepers and workers.