Iran Protests Continue as Judiciary Warns of No Leniency for ‘Rioters’

Iran’s judiciary has warned of strict action against what it terms “rioters” even as nationwide protests continue for a second week, sparked initially by economic distress and the sharp fall of the national currency. Authorities, however, have maintained that peaceful protest and violent unrest will be treated differently under the law.

Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei said prosecutors across the country have been instructed to act firmly against those involved in violence or disorder, while recognising the right of citizens to express grievances through lawful demonstrations. He stressed that the state distinguishes between protesters raising economic concerns and individuals accused of fomenting chaos.

Protests spread beyond Tehran

The unrest began in Tehran on December 28, when shopkeepers launched strikes over rising prices and prolonged economic stagnation. Demonstrations have since expanded to dozens of cities and towns, with participants voicing both economic and political demands. Officials say protests have been reported in a majority of Iran’s provinces, largely concentrated in western regions.

Clashes during the demonstrations have resulted in multiple deaths since late December, including among security personnel, according to official statements. While the government has adopted a conciliatory tone toward economic complaints, it has reiterated a zero-tolerance policy for violence and attempts at destabilisation.

Economic pressure and government response

Iran’s economy continues to face severe strain due to international sanctions, with the rial losing over a third of its value against the U.S. dollar in the past year and inflation remaining in double digits. In response to mounting public pressure, the government recently announced a monthly cash allowance for citizens aimed at easing financial hardship. State-affiliated media have acknowledged public discontent, while conservative outlets have accused foreign powers of backing unrest. Iranian officials have repeatedly warned against what they describe as externally driven efforts to exploit domestic protests.

Global reactions

The situation has drawn international attention, with Donald Trump saying Washington is monitoring developments closely and warning of consequences if protesters are harmed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed solidarity with demonstrators, a statement Tehran dismissed as an attempt to undermine national unity.

Despite signs of a reduced protest footprint in recent days, security forces remain deployed at key locations in Tehran, and several universities continue to operate online. Protests have also been reported among Iranian diaspora communities abroad, underscoring the broader resonance of the unrest.