Iran Could Be Facing A Revolutionary Moment – Here's Why That Matters |
Iranians gather while blocking a street during a protest in Tehran, Iran on January 9, 2026. The nationwide protests started in Tehran's Grand Bazaar against the failing economic policies in late December, which spread to universities and other cities, and included economic slogans, to political and anti-government ones.
Nationwide protests have rocked Iran over the last two weeks as the general public push back against the authoritarian regime.
This is the largest challenge the Iranian state has faced for years. Authorities have even cut off internet access in a bid to control the demonstrations by isolating the country altogether.
Iran’s global influence, as well as its alliance with both Russia and China, mean that what happens there could have a knock-on effect for countries around the world.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Happening In Iran?
The current pushback began to build among Tehran’s shopkeepers, as Iranians grew frustrated over sky-high inflation.
The prices of basic goods like cooking oil and chicken soared overnight, while some products became completely unavailable.
The Iranian central bank then chose to stop some importers from accessing cheaper US dollars, compared to the rest of the market.
Some shops closed altogether, which was the tipping point. Protests began to spread across more than 100 cities, as demonstrators want an opening up of the economy.
There’s additional fury from young people, particularly women, too, over the state repression, poverty and ethnic division.
Crowds have also been chanting “death to Khamenei”, referring to Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei.
There’s some frustration towards........