Protests of Dey 1396

Culture of origin: Iranian · Historical

Holiday sources: Iran · Lur

The protests began in Mashhad over economic policy and spread across Iran, reaching more than 70 towns and cities. Their target widened to the theocracy itself and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with crowds chanting 'Death to the dictator!', the strongest challenge to the regime since 2009. By 2 January 2018 at least 21 protesters had been killed; about 3,700 were arrested by one lawmaker's count, and Internet providers tied to the Revolutionary Guards blocked access.