Are Iran’s protests different this time around?

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Virginia PietromarchiJanuary 14, 2026 at 07:26 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Recent protests in Iran, beginning in late December 2025, are considered unprecedented due to a combination of internal and external pressures. Initially sparked by economic grievances in Tehran, the demonstrations spread nationwide, encompassing a diverse range of social groups. The protests are fueled by a struggling economy, exacerbated by US sanctions reimposed in 2018, leading to currency devaluation, inflation, and unemployment. Compounding the situation are threats of military action from the US government, further destabilizing the country. The Iranian government's attempts at economic reform have failed to quell the unrest, leading to a violent response from security forces and communication blackouts.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Grand Bazaar 30% Quincy Institute 35% Trita Parsi 40% Islamic revolution 50% Tehran ×260% Donald Trump 65% United States ×480% Iran ×995%

Keywords

iran protests 100% economic crisis 80% us sanctions 70% political unrest 60% iranian rial 50% government response 50% islamic revolution 40% united states 40%