Iranian Authorities Outline Causes of Recent Nationwide Unrest
Iranian officials have provided a detailed explanation for the recent wave of unrest across the country, attributing it primarily to the economic impact of subsidy reforms and what they describe as coordinated foreign interference. According to a briefing held at the Iranian embassy in Islamabad, the situation began in mid-December 2025 after the government implemented what it termed an "economic surgery." This policy involved abolishing the preferential exchange rate and redirecting subsidies directly to citizens, a move intended to enhance efficiency and equity in the economy.
Initial Protests and Economic Pressures
Officials acknowledged that the subsidy reforms had immediate psychological effects on the market, triggering currency volatility and inflationary pressures. These developments led to lawful protests by various groups, including shopkeepers, importers, guilds, and commercial associations, particularly in Tehran's Grand Bazaar. The first sector-based protest gatherings were reported on Sunday, December 28, 2025, following a sharp rise in foreign exchange rates. Participants primarily demanded market stability and effective government measures to control the volatility.
Authorities noted that the initial demonstrations were peaceful, professional, and demand-driven, with protesters exercising their right to freedom of expression and assembly as guaranteed under Iran's constitution and international human rights commitments, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In response, President Masoud Pezeshkian moved quickly to engage with representatives of guilds and economic activists on December 30. He instructed key ministries, including interior, agriculture, industry, mine, and trade, as well as provincial governors, to address grievances and stabilize markets. Support packages for vulnerable groups were announced, alongside consultative meetings with bazaar unions and business communities.
Escalation Due to Foreign Interference
However, the briefing claims that the situation escalated sharply following a series of statements by foreign leaders and officials. On January 2, 2026, former US President Donald Trump declared that the United States was "locked and loaded," a remark Iranian officials described as an interventionist signal that emboldened militant and terrorist groups. Statements by other American figures and the Israeli prime minister were also cited as encouraging unrest. Iranian authorities allege that organized gangs, foreign-backed terrorist groups, and trained combatants exploited the protests, turning them into violent riots involving:
- Arson and sabotage
- Vandalism of public and private properties
- Attacks on police stations
- Use of firearms and Molotov cocktails
Iran's Supreme Leader, addressing the nation on January 3, drew a clear distinction between peaceful protesters and those intent on destruction. He stated that while protest and dialogue were legitimate, those seeking to create insecurity and disorder must be confronted. Officials said law-enforcement agencies acted with restraint during the disturbances, adhering to principles of necessity and proportionality while working to restore public order.
Continued Unrest and Aftermath
Riots continued intermittently between January 8 and 11, amid what Tehran described as increasing foreign interference. On January 12, large rallies were held by supporters of the Islamic Republic, which authorities said demonstrated that the public was not deceived by external narratives. The following day, further statements by US political figures calling for the takeover of institutions were condemned by Iran as incitement to violence.
The unrest resulted in extensive human and material losses, according to official figures. Authorities reported damage to hundreds of government buildings, police stations, schools, mosques, banks, transport facilities, and private properties, as well as ambulances, buses, and fuel stations. The total death toll was put at 3,117, including civilians, security personnel, and what officials described as terrorists involved in violent actions.
Iran has reiterated that unilateral coercive measures and sanctions have exacerbated economic pressures on its population, contributing to social strain. Officials emphasized that while the government remains committed to addressing legitimate economic concerns through reforms and dialogue, it will continue to oppose what it terms foreign interference aimed at undermining national cohesion and security.
