Crisis Brief: Protests, Blackouts, and a Nation in Turmoil In Iran
Iran faces nationwide unrest as citizens protest economic hardship,social and political issues, met with heavy government response and limited online access.
BRIEF AND EXPLAINERS
Stephanie Mwangaza Kasereka
1/19/20261 min read
Location:
Nationwide across Iran
Started:
December 2025
Main actors:
Iranian government and security forces; Iranian protesters; international observers and human rights groups
What is happening:
Iran has seen widespread protests driven by economic hardship, social and political dissatisfaction. Demonstrations expanded nationwide and were met with a strong government crackdown, including arrests, use of force, and restrictions on internet and media access. While large street protests have declined, unrest and opposition persist.
Why it started:
Rising inflation, currency collapse, higher living costs, and long-standing frustration with political repression and lack of economic opportunity.
What’s at stake:
Political stability, human rights, economic survival for millions of citizens, and Iran’s relationship with the international community.
Why it matters now:
The unrest poses one of the most significant internal challenges to Iran’s leadership in years and has heightened regional tensions and global scrutiny, with potential long-term consequences for Iran’s future direction.
References
Al Jazeera. (2026, January 12). What we know about the protests sweeping Iran. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/1/12/what-we-know-about-the-protests-sweeping-iran
Reuters. (2026, January 18). Iranian official says verified deaths in Iran protests reaches at least 5,000. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/iranian-official-says-verified-deaths-iran-protests-reaches-least-5000-2026-01-18/
AP News. (2026, January). US‑based activist agency says it has verified 3,919 deaths from Iran protests. Associated Press. https://apnews.com/article/95207b62fb2c8a4f3745d981ea0f9849