Iran Protests Reach Day 11: Kurdish Parties and Pahlavi Call for Strikes

WISE NEWS PRESS / TEHRAN, IRAN

Anti-government protests in Iran have spread to at least 17 provinces on their 11th day, as opposition figures and Kurdish political organizations issue urgent calls for nationwide general strikes and sustained demonstrations.

The unrest, which began on December 28 following a record plunge in the value of the Iranian rial, has escalated into a major challenge for the Islamic Republic. Human rights network HRANA reports that at least 36 people have been killed and over 2,000 detained so far. In response to international pressure, particularly from US President Donald Trump who warned of "very harsh" consequences if violence continues, President Masoud Pezeshkian reportedly ordered security forces to distinguish between "peaceful protesters" and "rioters."

Calls for General Strikes and Resistance

Kurdish political parties have jointly condemned the crackdowns in Ilam, Kermanshah, and Lorestan, calling for a comprehensive general strike across Iran’s Kurdish regions. Six Kurdish women’s organizations also released a statement denouncing the violence, while Kurdish political prisoners announced hunger strikes in solidarity. Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, the son of the late Shah, urged Iranians in a video message to maintain "crowded gatherings" at synchronized times to force security forces to retreat and sustain the movement’s momentum.

Economic Desperation and Government Measures

The protests are deeply rooted in economic collapse, with the rial losing more than half its value against the dollar in the past year and inflation exceeding 42%. In an attempt to quell the anger, the Iranian government announced a monthly cash transfer of approximately seven dollars per household to protect purchasing power. However, critics argue the source of these funds is unclear and the amount is far too small to offset the skyrocketing costs of staples like eggs and cooking oil.

Hospital Raid Allegations and International Outcry

Reports and videos allegedly showing Iranian police raiding the Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam and using tear gas inside the facility have sparked international condemnation. Amnesty International described the reported incident as a "violation of international law." While the Iranian Parliament announced an investigation into the claims, Health Minister Mohammad Reza Zafarghandi denied allegations that security forces were forcibly removing wounded protesters from medical facilities.

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