Iran has witnessed widespread nationwide protests (2025–26) triggered by severe economic distress, which later expanded into political and governance-related dissent. The protests have drawn international attention due to alleged human rights violations, internet shutdowns, and geopolitical implications.

Background

Iran is a theocratic republic where ultimate authority rests with the Supreme Leader. Over the last decade, Iran has faced:

• Economic sanctions (especially US-led)
• High inflation
• Currency depreciation
• Youth unemployment
• Restricted civil liberties

Earlier protest waves were seen in 2009 (Green Movement), 2017–18, 2019 fuel protests, and 2022 protests. The current unrest represents a continuation and intensification of these trends.

Immediate Causes of the Protests

1. Economic Crisis (Primary Trigger)

• Inflation crossed 40%+
• Iranian Rial sharply devalued
• Rising prices of food, fuel, housing
• Reduction in subsidies and new taxation measures
• Widening gap between elite and common citizens

2. Governance and Political Discontent

• Public frustration with authoritarian governance
• Limited political participation
• Lack of accountability
• Corruption allegations

Many protests evolved from economic slogans to anti-establishment political slogans.

3. Social Factors

• Youth-led protests
• Students and urban middle class participation
• Long-standing restrictions on freedom of expression

Spread and Nature of Protests

• Started in Tehran (Grand Bazaar)
• Spread to Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, Tabriz, Hamadan, etc.
• Nationwide presence across multiple provinces
• Participation of traders, workers, students

Nature:

• Peaceful protests initially
• Later clashes with security forces
• Attacks on symbols of state authority reported

Government Response

• Deployment of security forces
• Internet and communication shutdowns
• Large-scale arrests
• Use of force to disperse crowds
• Labeling protests as “foreign-sponsored unrest”

International Reaction

• Western countries raised concerns over human rights
• Calls for restraint and dialogue
• Iran accused foreign powers of interference
• Heightened diplomatic tensions, especially with the US

Geopolitical Significance

1. Regional Stability

• Iran plays a key role in:
• West Asia geopolitics
• Energy security
• Strait of Hormuz (oil transit route)

Internal instability could affect:

• Oil prices
• Regional security dynamics

2. Global Order

• Raises questions on sovereignty vs human rights
• Reflects challenges in sanction-hit economies
• Highlights limits of coercive diplomacy

Implications for India

1. Energy Security

• Iran is a major oil producer
• Instability may affect global oil supply and prices

2. Regional Diplomacy

• India maintains balanced relations with:

• • Iran
  • USA
  • Gulf countries
• Chabahar Port project is strategically important

3. Indian Diaspora

• Safety of Indians in Iran
• Evacuation preparedness (if situation worsens)

Conclusion

The protests in Iran are not isolated events but part of a long-term structural crisis combining:

• Economic stress
• Political centralisation
• Social discontent

While the immediate trigger is economic, the underlying causes are systemic. The developments will have significant implications for West Asia, global energy markets, and international diplomacy.