Anti-regime protests spread to over 70 cities in Iran on their seventh day, resulting in at least 10 deaths from security forces’ gunfire, protesters seizing areas in Tehran and other cities, as Supreme Leader Khamenei threatens repression and Reza Pahlavi urges military defection amid international support.
Protests persist for seventh day amid clashes and fatalities
Anti-regime demonstrations in Iran, initially sparked by severe economic pressures, have continued into their seventh consecutive day. Reports from rights groups and media outlets indicate the unrest has spread to dozens of cities across more than 20 provinces, with at least 10 to 16 people killed in confrontations with security forces.
Some accounts on social media describe the protests reaching over 70 cities, while mainstream reporting confirms activity in over 100 locations.
🚨 BREAKING — Just now in Iran, in Tehran’s Narmak area, a historic, massive anti-Islamist-regime protest is taking place. Pro-Shah, pro-@PahlaviReza protesters are chanting “Death to the Dictator”, demanding the removal of the Islamist regime. Share it with the world to know. pic.twitter.com/Mo47OMHMHV
— Shayan X (@ShayanX0) January 3, 2026
Deaths have occurred from live gunfire by security forces, according to opposition-linked human rights monitors.
Khamenei authorizes stronger measures against unrest
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public comments on the protests, insisting that “rioters must be put in their place.” He acknowledged some legitimate economic grievances but drew a line between peaceful protesters and those engaging in violence, a statement widely interpreted as clearing the way for intensified crackdowns.
Reza Pahlavi encourages persistence from exile
Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince and son of the last shah, has actively supported the demonstrations through public messages. He has praised young protesters as a “Generation V” for victory, urged continued occupation of streets through roadblocks, and called on military and police forces to refuse orders to fire on civilians and join the people.
🚨 BREAKING FINALLY DID IT: Iran, Khamenei, Islam’s last pillar, is falling.
Iranians protest the Islamic Republic in Esfahan, Tehran, & Hamedan.
The Islamic Jāhiliyyah (Age of Ignorance) is coming to an end.
A New Era Begins in Happy New Year!#Iran #Israel #Trump #USA 🇮🇳🇮🇱🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/4YxaSoNkc4
— “ Viקin Kบmⱥr ” (@VVipinpatel) January 2, 2026
Economic hardship drives rapid spread
The unrest began late last year over soaring inflation, currency devaluation, and falling living standards. Nightly demonstrations quickly evolved to include direct challenges to the Islamic Republic’s leadership, with chants against the supreme leader and, in some cases, in support of Pahlavi’s return. Protests have occurred in Tehran neighborhoods, including Narmak and Haft-Hoz, where clashes and fires involving police vehicles have been reported, though claims of full loss of control in those areas remain limited to social media accounts.
Reactions reflect deep divisions
Supporters in the Iranian diaspora and opposition groups have highlighted the protests’ growth and pro-Pahlavi sentiment among demonstrators. The regime has focused on isolating violent elements while addressing some economic complaints. International attention has included warnings against lethal force on protesters.
(With agency inputs)