Iran is witnessing a surge in protests today as various groups across the country voice their discontent with state policies and economic hardships.
Truck drivers in Shiraz protested against fuel rationing, while gold merchants in Tehran and several other cities rallied against new tax regulations that threatened their livelihoods. Additionally, factory workers in Chabahar went on strike, demanding unpaid wages.
The protests come in the wake of ongoing demonstrations by truck drivers, which began on April 27. Truck drivers are demanding a fair distribution of fuel quotas and better compensation for their services. Despite promises from government officials, their grievances remain unaddressed.
May 7—Rafsanjan, southern #Iran
Contract workers of the Sarcheshmeh copper factory rally in protest to discriminatory policies and low wages.#IranProtests pic.twitter.com/ZR6Ib33mYz— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) May 7, 2024
Footage posted on social media reveals that the truck drivers’ strike, which originated in Sistan and Baluchestan province, has spread to other regions of the country. Today, compressed trucks in Shiraz joined the strike in solidarity with their fellow drivers.
The truck drivers’ demands are multifaceted, ranging from a return to previous fuel quotas to more reasonable freight rates that reflect the rising cost of living.
May 7—Shiraz, southern #Iran
Dump truck owners rally to protest government policies that are damaging their livelihoods.#IranProtests pic.twitter.com/eBtLzEa2aM— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) May 7, 2024
In addition to the truck drivers’ strike, gold merchants across the country are shuttering their shops in protest against new tax laws that disproportionately affect their businesses. Security forces have been deployed to enforce the closures, further escalating tensions between the merchants and the Raisi government.
The protests highlight the growing discontent among various sectors of Iranian society, from truck drivers to gold merchants and factory workers. Despite facing threats of arrest and harsh reprisals from authorities, these groups remain steadfast in their demands for change.
May 7—Tehran, #Iran
Security forces harassing creditors of the state-backed Rezayat Khodro carmaker protesting the regime's continued disregard to their demands and complaints.#IranProtestspic.twitter.com/YZYj15PP8l— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) May 7, 2024
The situation remains fluid as protests continue to spread to new regions, underscoring the deep-rooted grievances and frustrations felt by millions of Iranians.
More footage of the protest rally by the creditors of the state-backed Rezayat Khodro carmaker.#Iran #IranProtestspic.twitter.com/igclpXsJz7
— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) May 7, 2024
