Iran Unrest Over Soaring Prices Turns Deadly as U.S. Warns Tehran on Lethal Force

Overview

• Local reports put the death toll at least at six in recent clashes, including three in Azna, two in Lordegan, and a 21-year-old Basij member in Kuhdasht, with some outlets citing seven fatalities.
• Police say roughly 30 people were detained in a coordinated operation in Malard for allegedly disturbing public order.
• Demonstrations that began Dec. 28–29 with Tehran merchants striking over hyperinflation and a plunging rial spread to universities and multiple provincial cities.
• The government says it opened talks with society representatives, while the attorney general warned of a "firm" response to any unrest or damage to public property, and state media reported further arrests.
• President Donald Trump said the United States is ready to act if peaceful protesters are killed, as Iran grapples with a reported 52% year‑on‑year price surge and a sharply devalued currency following the central bank chief’s resignation.