Iran witnessed a surge of protests today, as demonstrations erupted across multiple sectors in different regions of the country. From students and nurses to oil workers, people are taking to the streets to express their grievances against a backdrop of economic hardship and governmental policies. The wave of protests highlights growing discontent and a demand for systemic changes.
In Tehran, students from Azad University gathered in front of the Majlis (Parliament) to voice their anger over a sudden and steep increase in tuition fees. The protest, which continued from last week, was sparked by a threefold hike in fees for medical sciences programs, with annual costs jumping from 30 million to 90 million tomans per semester. Students held signs denouncing the tuition hikes, calling them an unjust burden on families already struggling with economic pressures.
The student body accused Azad University of acting without transparency, citing that the fee increases were not disclosed in advance. “This move is a direct attack on the right to education,” said one student representative. Protesters criticized the university’s administration for failing to provide clear information about the new fees and accused the institution of prioritizing profits over education.
October 19—Tehran, Iran
Students of Azad University rally in front of the Majlis (parliament) to continue protests against the sudden hike in tuition fees.#IranProtestspic.twitter.com/JgSxfTQVKv— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) October 19, 2024
Simultaneously, nurses in Zanjan, Zanjan Province, resumed their protests, demanding better wages and changes to excessive overtime requirements. The demonstrators gathered outside the governor’s office, chanting slogans such as “Promises are not enough, our tables are empty,” and “We do not want compulsory overtime.”
Nurses in Zanjan have been vocal about their struggles, pointing to long hours, inadequate pay, and challenging working conditions. Despite repeated calls for change, the authorities have largely ignored their demands. Today’s protests reflect a deep-rooted frustration within the healthcare sector, which has faced increased pressure during the economic downturn and the ongoing healthcare challenges.
October 19—Zanjan, northwest Iran
Nurses resume protest rallies as regime authorities refrain from addressing their demands for better wages and changes to overtime work requirements.#IranProtestspic.twitter.com/AojxbI8geU— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) October 19, 2024
On October 18, oil workers from the Siri region in Hormozgan Province staged protests. They gathered to express their dissatisfaction with the deteriorating economic situation and what they describe as “anti-worker policies” imposed by the government. This marks the latest in a series of protests from the energy sector, which has seen repeated demonstrations over wage disputes, job security, and working conditions.
Meanwhile, a tragic event unfolded in Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province, where on October 16, security forces reportedly shot and killed a local Baluch citizen following a pursuit in the Keshavarz area. The incident has raised further concerns over the heavy-handed tactics employed by authorities, particularly in regions where ethnic groups have historically faced discrimination and targeted actions. Local activists have condemned the incident, calling it another example of the oppressive measures taken by the regime against marginalized communities.
Tehran pic.twitter.com/1tM1BEfaqg
— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) October 19, 2024
The recent protests come amid ongoing efforts by the PMOI Resistance Units to mark the anniversary of Maryam Rajavi’s election as the president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). The opposition group has been advocating for a transition of power, aiming to mobilize support against the clerical regime. Their activities add to the backdrop of unrest and calls for change, further amplifying the message of dissatisfaction across the nation.
The demonstrations reflect a broader pattern of discontent, cutting across different sectors and demographics. Students, nurses, oil workers, and citizens from marginalized communities have all raised their voices against what they perceive as unjust economic policies and inadequate responses to their demands. The recurring protests underscore the economic strain facing many Iranians, who are struggling with rising living costs, inflation, and limited opportunities.
The Iranian regime has largely downplayed the protests, with officials dismissing the scale of opposition. Yet, the persistence of these demonstrations highlights a deepening sense of disillusionment among citizens. Protesters across the country share a common call for justice, economic relief, and groundbreaking change.