Iranians Clash With Police During Second Day Of Protests Over Economic, Currency Woes

"Protests in Iran over a plummeting currency and inflation fears continued for a second day in the capital, despite attempts by security forces to disperse crowds with volleys of tear gas. RFE/RL's Radio Farda reported on December 29 that crowds of people were seen chanting slogans about the economic situation and against the government at gatherings at the Grand Bazaar -- where many merchants had closed their shops -- and elsewhere in central Tehran."

"Amid the turmoil, Iranian media reported that the head of the central bank, Mohammad Reza Farzin, had decided to step down. A spokesman for President Masud Pezeshkian said the bank chief, who held the position since December 2022, would be replaced by former Economy Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati -- who was sacked by lawmakers in March. The Iranian rial is trading at around 1.4 million to the dollar, compared to around 800,000 a year ago, on unofficial markets."

"There were also reports of crowds chanting "death to the dictator," a slogan often heard during the mass nationwide Women, Life, Freedom protests that shook Iran in 2022. Videos showed clashes with security forces using batons and tear gas. In an unusual move, domestic state media, including TV and radio, also reported on the protests. The Fars news agency acknowledged they were taking place at several locations in Tehran, noting that people were chanting political slogans."

Protests continued for a second day in Tehran as crowds gathered at the Grand Bazaar and other central locations. Demonstrators chanted about the economic situation and against the government, with some shouting "death to the dictator." Security forces used batons and volleys of tear gas to disperse crowds, and videos showed clashes. Many merchants closed shops and joined the protests, leaving bazaars shuttered. The Iranian rial plunged to record lows on unofficial markets, trading around 1.4 million to the dollar. Central Bank head Mohammad Reza Farzin decided to step down and will be replaced by Abdolnaser Hemmati. Domestic state media unusually reported on the unrest.

Read at RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty