Two people confirmed dead in clashes between protesters and security forces in Iran

Two people have been reported dead amid continued demonstrations in Iran, as public unrest linked to the rising cost of living entered its fifth day, underscoring the depth of economic concerns facing many citizens.

According to reports by the semi-official Fars news agency and Kurdish human rights group Hengaw, the fatalities occurred during confrontations between protesters and security forces in the city of Lordegan, located in Iran’s south-western region. The incident reflects the growing intensity of demonstrations as economic pressures persist across the country.

Videos circulated on social media on Thursday showed dramatic scenes from the protests, including cars set ablaze amid fast-moving clashes between demonstrators and security personnel. Despite the volatility, the widespread sharing of footage highlights an increasingly engaged population using digital platforms to express grievances and draw attention to local developments.

Protesters in several cities have voiced broader political demands alongside economic frustrations. Some chants have called for an end to the rule of Iran’s supreme leader, while others have reflected nostalgia among certain groups for Iran’s former monarchical system. These varied expressions point to an evolving national conversation driven by economic hardship and aspirations for change.

The protests were triggered by a sharp collapse in the national currency, which has significantly affected purchasing power and daily life. As demonstrations spread, authorities declared a bank holiday on Wednesday, leading to the closure of schools, universities, and public institutions nationwide. While officials cited energy conservation due to cold weather as the reason, many citizens interpreted the move as an effort to reduce public gatherings and ease tensions.