Protests over rising living costs in Iran turned deadly as security forces opened fire on demonstrators in the city of Lordegan, according to state media and human rights monitors.
At least two people were reported killed during clashes, marking the first civilian deaths since demonstrations began over the weekend.
Clashes reported during rural protests
State media said security forces fired on crowds in Lordegan following confrontations with protesters, confirming at least two fatalities.
Human rights group Hengaw reported a higher toll, claiming that several people were killed or wounded by direct gunfire, though those figures could not be independently verified.
Videos show chaos and public anger
Footage circulating on social media appeared to show protesters carrying bodies through the streets and storming a local courthouse in anger.
The Iranian protesters are going hard in Asadabad against the forces of the Islamic regime 👏 👏 pic.twitter.com/MCcGuTfjOi
— Emily Schrader – אמילי שריידר امیلی شریدر (@emilykschrader) January 1, 2026
The demonstrations reportedly escalated after security forces responded to stone-throwing by protesters with live ammunition.
Basij member also reported killed
Iranian state-linked sources reported that a volunteer from the Basij, which operates under the Revolutionary Guard, was also killed during the clashes.
Authorities have not released further details on the circumstances surrounding that death.
Unrest driven by economic pressures
The protests began amid growing frustration over Iran’s struggling economy, rising prices, and cost-of-living pressures.
Demonstrations that initially appeared limited have reportedly spread to additional locations nationwide, raising concerns among observers about wider instability.
Situation remains fluid
Officials have not released a comprehensive casualty count, and access to independent verification remains limited.
Observers say the unfolding unrest has drawn comparisons to previous uprisings, though it remains unclear how far the current protests may spread or how authorities will respond in the coming days.
