Shops closed during protests in Tehran's Grand Bazaar on a cold December day, marking the beginning of widespread demonstrations across Iran, according to the Associated Press. The protests, which began in Tehran and spread to cities including Azna, Malekshahi, Kermanshah, Marvdasht, and Fouladshahr, were fueled by economic pressures, soaring consumer prices, and the declining value of the Iranian rial.

The rial had lost nearly half its value over the past year, causing significant financial losses for merchants, according to Tohid Asadi, reporting from Tehran. This economic downturn, coupled with longstanding high inflation and stagnant wages, transformed commercial hubs into focal points for public discontent.

These commercial centers have historically served as barometers of public opinion in Iran. The closure of shops in Tehran's Grand Bazaar, a centuries-old trading center, acted as a catalyst for broader unrest. The protests highlight the growing frustration among Iranians regarding the country's economic policies and their impact on daily life.

The demonstrations reflect a broader trend of economic grievances leading to social and political instability. Similar patterns have been observed in other countries facing economic hardship, where commercial centers often become sites of protest due to their visibility and economic significance.

As of January 8, 2026, the protests continued sporadically across Iran. The long-term impact of these demonstrations on Iran's economic and political landscape remains to be seen.