Iran’s protests have spread across provinces, despite skepticism and concern among ethnic groups

The demands of Iran’s ethnic minorities differ from many of those in Tehran, and they have reason to fear the return of the Pahlavi monarchy.

By: Shukriya Bradost, Virginia Tech, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 13, 2026

Words: 1,563

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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By Shukriya Bradost, Virginia Tech

When Iran’s ongoing protests began in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar on Dec. 28 2025, the government initially treated them as manageable and temporary.

Bazaar merchants have historically been among the most conservative social groups in Iran, deeply embedded in the state’s economic structure and closely connected to political authority. Within the Iranian government itself, there was apparent confidence that their protests were not revolutionary in nature but transactional – …

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