Violent clashes reported as Iran protests spread to more areas

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete January 8, 2026 at 04:56 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Anti-government protests in Iran, triggered by the country's economic crisis, have continued for 11 days and spread to 111 cities and towns across all 31 provinces. Violent clashes between protesters and security forces have been reported in multiple locations, including Lordegan, where two policemen were reportedly shot and killed. Protests began on December 28th in Tehran due to the falling value of the Iranian currency and high inflation, and have since expanded to include slogans against the Supreme Leader and in support of the former Shah. Reports indicate at least 34 protesters and four security personnel have died, with over 2,200 protesters arrested. Videos show protesters clashing with security forces in cities like Qazvin, Bandar Abbas and Mashhad.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Bandar Abbas 50% Aligudarz 50% Qazvin 50% Lordegan 60% Reza Pahlavi 60% Fars News Agency 60% BBC Persian ×270% Revolutionary Guards 70% Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) 70% Tehran ×270% Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ×270% Iran ×390%

Keywords

iran protests 100% violent clashes 90% security forces 80% economic crisis 70% anti-government 70% iranian currency 60% inflation 50% human rights 40%