Tehran , 07 January (H.S.): Iran entered the tenth day of widespread unrest, with protests now erupting in 92 cities across the country, resulting in at least 36 deaths so far. Demonstrators, galvanized by anger over soaring prices, have openly challenged Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with the unrest reaching even the sacred city of Qom. In Ilam province, protesters stormed a government supermarket, scattering goods and celebrating their defiance.

According to reports from Iran International and US-based human rights activists, at least 36 people have been killed during the ongoing protests, including four minors. Over 2,000 individuals have been arrested, and dozens more have sustained injuries.

The demonstrations have spread to 27 provinces, with citizens from all walks of life joining the movement in growing numbers.

On the tenth day, traders in Mashhad’s commercial centers and Tehran’s Grand Bazaar also joined the protests. Security forces responded with tear gas, attempting to disperse demonstrators near major commercial hubs. In Ilam, a predominantly Kurdish region, the protests remained intense, with funeral processions for slain protesters turning into further anti-government rallies.

In Abdanan, crowds took to the streets, chanting slogans against the Supreme Leader.Seven Iranian Kurdish opposition parties have publicly supported the nationwide protests and issued a joint call for a general strike. They urged all political parties and civil organizations to unite against the Islamic Republic’s regime and join the movement.

Exiled prince Reza Pahlavi also voiced support for the protests in a video message.Security forces have entered hospitals in several cities, including Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam and Sina Hospital in Tehran, where they reportedly fired tear gas and arrested injured protesters. Iranian authorities have announced an investigation into the violence in Ilam.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar