At least four killed in protests in western Iran, rights groups say

Sunday 04 January 2026 - 08:30

By: Sahili Aya

At least four killed in protests in western Iran, rights groups say

At least four people were killed on Saturday during protests in western Iran, according to human rights organizations, as clashes erupted between demonstrators and security forces. The incidents occurred amid a wave of nationwide unrest driven by economic hardship and growing political frustration.

Rights groups reported that security forces, including members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, used live ammunition against protesters in parts of the western Ilam province. The victims were said to belong to Iran’s Kurdish minority, highlighting longstanding ethnic and social tensions in the region.

The demonstrations, now in their seventh day, began as protests against rising prices, inflation, and declining living standards. They have since evolved into broader expressions of dissent, echoing earlier protest movements that challenged the country’s political leadership. Activists describe the current unrest as the most significant since the 2022–2023 protests, which were met with heavy repression.

Iranian state media acknowledged disturbances in several cities but blamed the violence on what they described as rioters attacking public buildings and security posts. Authorities have reported casualties among security personnel as well.

According to independent monitors, protests have spread to dozens of cities across multiple provinces, underscoring the scale of public discontent. The situation remains volatile, with calls from rights groups for restraint and accountability as tensions continue to rise.