Iran protests escalate amid clashes and rising death tolls

Sporadic protests have erupted in Tehran and other Iranian cities, initially over economic issues but increasingly involving political demands, with clashes reported especially in the west of the country. The protests, which began on December 28, have seen limited participation in Tehran but more violence in western regions like Malekshahi, where a security officer was killed. Supreme Leader Khamenei acknowledged the protests but emphasized they are not yet nationwide and warned against violence, signaling ongoing tensions amid Iran's economic struggles.