Iran protests intensify as crowds target government building

Protests across Iran escalated into a fourth day as demonstrators attempted to force entry into a government building in the southern province of Fars.

The unrest has been driven by anger over a sharp collapse in the value of the Iranian currency against the US dollar on open markets.

Officials said protesters targeted the governor’s office in the city of Fasa during clashes with security forces.

Authorities confirmed that three police officers were injured during confrontations with demonstrators.

Four people were arrested following attempts to breach the government compound in Fasa.

Tensions were also reported in western provinces including Hamedan and Lorestan as demonstrations spread.

In Tehran, authorities declared Wednesday a nationwide bank holiday in an apparent attempt to curb gatherings.

Video footage verified by the BBC showed protesters breaking down the gate of the governor’s office.

Additional footage showed security forces responding with gunfire and tear gas near shuttered shops.

Schools, universities and public institutions across Iran were closed following the sudden holiday announcement.

Officials said the closures were due to energy conservation during cold weather.

Many Iranians interpreted the move as an effort to contain and disperse protests.

The demonstrations began in Tehran on Sunday among shopkeepers affected by the falling currency.

University students joined the unrest by Tuesday, expanding protests into several major cities.

Protesters were heard chanting slogans against Iran’s clerical leadership and ruling establishment.

The unrest marks the most widespread protests since demonstrations in 2022.

Those protests followed the death of Mahsa Amini while in morality police custody.

Security has been tightened in districts of Tehran where demonstrations first erupted.

President Masoud Pezeshkian said his government would address public grievances.

We will listen to the legitimate demands of the protesters.

Masoud Pezeshkian said.

Prosecutor general Mohammad Movahedi-Azad warned against further instability.

Any attempt to create instability will face a decisive response.

Mohammad Movahedi-Azad said.