The Daily Aus Why are there protests in Iran?
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Jan 12, 2026 Iran is witnessing its most significant anti-government protests in years, evolving from economic discontent to demands for regime change across over 100 cities. The discussion highlights the initial unrest sparked by a currency crisis and escalating inflation. A violent crackdown has claimed hundreds of lives, while international reactions, including U.S. involvement, intensify the situation. There's a glimpse of hope that these protests could lead to a revolutionary shift, focusing on dignity and freedom for the Iranian people.
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Economic Shock Sparked Broad Unrest
- The protests began as economic unrest after Iran's currency crashed and inflation surged to 52.6% in December.
- Shopkeepers who traditionally supported the regime joined, widening the movement into broader political anger.
Power Concentrated In The Supreme Leader
- Iran's system places a supreme leader above an elected president, concentrating oversight in religious authority since 1979.
- That structure means political grievances often target theocratic control, not just government policy.
Economic Protests Became Calls For Regime Change
- What began as economic protests rapidly evolved into calls for overthrowing Iran's leadership across more than 100 cities.
- Protesters chanted against the regime and showed support for exiled Shah's son, Reza Pahlavi, signalling political aims beyond economic reforms.