The strike expands: unusual protest and closing of shops in Iran

A widespread and unusual protest wave broke out in the last day in various cities in Iran, after the local rial continued to weaken and reached a new low against the dollar. Business owners and merchants led the protest, closing shops and going on strike, protesting the cost of living and the economic collapse. According to reports from opposition bodies, the demonstrations spread quickly, and large gatherings were recorded in various locations in Tehran. The Grand Bazaar in the capital, one of the symbols of the Iranian economy, also shut down its activities – an unusual step that indicates the depth of the crisis.

In the documents published on social networks, protesters are seen marching in main streets and chanting slogans against the regime. According to reports, some protesters tried to persuade more traders to join the strike, while security forces were deployed in key areas. Opposition sources said that many merchants have difficulty meeting the rental costs and commodity prices, and that the continued weakening of the currency has made economic activity unviable. In some areas, additional markets were reported closed as a sign of protest.

The background to the events is Iran’s difficult economic situation: high inflation, a sharp increase in food prices, a continuous budget deficit and sanctions that burden the economy. Last month, the president of Iran admitted that the country is facing a deep economic and social crisis, and warned against its consequences for internal stability.