Translate to English State media confirms the death of Supreme Leader Khamenei – all news in the live ticker

Israel and the USA have launched attacks against Iran, starting a new war. Tehran responds with counterattacks. The situation in the Middle East is escalating.

All developments in the live ticker

What is currently happening in Iran?

A nationwide wave of protests against the regime has been escalating in Iran since the end of December 2025. What began as a response to the severe economic crisis has developed into a broad uprising against the Islamic Republic. There are demonstrations, strikes and clashes with security forces in many cities. International observers speak of the worst domestic political crisis since the Islamic Revolution of 1979.

Why are Iranians protesting now?

The unrest was triggered by sharply rising food prices, a lack of water and the massive decline in the value of the local currency, the rial. The protests are now fundamentally directed against poverty, corruption and political oppression. For the first time, experts see a broad social alliance: traders from the traditional bazaars, previously often close to the regime, are demonstrating together with the working and middle classes.

What is the regime doing about the protests?

Since the beginning of January 2026, the leadership has been relying on comprehensive repression. These include nationwide internet blocks, telephone blockades, shots at demonstrators and mass trials. International calls were temporarily completely interrupted and later only partially possible again. At the same time, the regime is mobilizing its own supporters for counter-demonstrations, including in Tehran.

Who rules Iran and how is power organized in the state?

Iran is an Islamic republic with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as the highest authority. He controls the military, judiciary, media and large parts of politics. The President and Parliament have limited power. The Revolutionary Guards, which are economically and militarily strong and have so far been considered loyal to the leadership, play a central role.

Can the protests topple the regime?

Many observers speak of the worst crisis since 1979. The 86-year-old Khamenei is increasingly losing authority and the economy is considered largely bankrupt. Nevertheless, the Revolutionary Guards have so far stuck to the regime. Political scientists only see a possible upheaval if there are divisions within the security forces. Islamic scholar Katajun Amirpur said the “days of the Islamic Republic” could be numbered.

What role does the USA, Trump and other international actors play?

US President Donald Trump has publicly pledged support for the demonstrators and threatened technical and political measures. Among other things, he brought up possible support via satellite internet. The United Nations is calling for an immediate stop to the violence. Israeli intelligence circles have openly expressed their support for the protest movement. The Iranian leadership accuses the USA and Israel of deliberate interference. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) also recently said that an end to the regime was possible. Solidarity demonstrations took place in several German cities.

What are the economic consequences of the protests?

The ongoing unrest is deepening the economic crisis in Iran. International sanctions, threats of punitive measures and political uncertainty are impacting energy and raw materials markets. Oil prices are particularly sensitive to the situation in Iran. Trading partners and investors are increasingly withdrawing, which is further aggravating the supply situation in the country.

How safe is the situation in Iran currently?

The security situation is considered extremely tense. Public gatherings are violently broken up and numerous regions are affected by communication blackouts. International observers and governments advise against non-essential travel to Iran. The civilian population in many cities is also at increased risk from violence, arrests and restrictions on basic rights.

What’s next? Outlook on the situation in Iran

Observers expect further escalation in the short term. Whether there will be a political upheaval depends primarily on whether parts of the security forces turn away from the regime. International reactions, economic pressure and the internal dynamics of the protest movement could have a significant influence on developments. One thing is clear: the protests are shaking the power structures of the Islamic Republic more than they have in decades.