Tehran: Iran’s judiciary has issued a stern warning against those involved in violent unrest, saying there will be no leniency for “rioters”, even as it reaffirmed citizens’ right to peaceful protest. The remarks came amid more than a week of nationwide demonstrations triggered by economic hardship and currency collapse, and following sharp warnings from the United States.
Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said prosecutors across the country have been instructed to act firmly against individuals involved in violence or disorder. At the same time, he said the authorities clearly distinguish between peaceful protesters and those attempting to destabilise the country.
Protests Spread Across Iran
The unrest began on December 28, when shopkeepers in Tehran went on strike over soaring prices and economic stagnation. Since then, demonstrations have expanded to at least 25 of Iran’s 31 provinces, affecting around 45 cities, mostly smaller urban centres in western regions.
According to official figures, at least 12 people have been killed since December 30 in clashes involving protesters and security forces. While officials have acknowledged economic grievances, they have vowed to respond decisively to any acts of violence or sabotage.
Iran’s economy remains under severe strain due to international sanctions. Over the past year, the rial has lost more than a third of its value against the U.S. dollar, while inflation remains in double digits. In response, the government announced a new monthly cash allowance for citizens, aimed at easing financial pressure.
US and Israel React
Tensions escalated after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Iran would face serious consequences if authorities killed more demonstrators. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said Washington was “watching very closely” and hinted at possible action.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed support for Iranian protesters, saying Israel stood in solidarity with their aspirations for freedom. Iranian officials rejected these statements, accusing the US and Israel of attempting to exploit internal unrest to undermine national unity.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei said such comments were part of a broader effort to sow division, while Iran’s prosecutor general warned of “externally designed scenarios” seeking to hijack the protests.
Situation on the Ground
Local media reported a noticeable decline in the number of demonstrations by Sunday night, with shops reopening in Tehran after a four-day holiday. However, security presence remains heavy, with riot police deployed at major intersections and several universities continuing online classes.
Protests have also been held by Iranian diaspora groups in cities such as Paris, though the current unrest has not yet reached the scale of the 2022 protests following Mahsa Amini’s death.
Our Thoughts
The Iranian government appears to be balancing limited economic concessions with a firm security stance. While tensions remain high, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether reforms calm public anger or if unrest escalates further amid international pressure.