On December 8, protests erupted in multiple cities across Iran, as students, retirees, and pensioners voiced their frustrations over safety lapses, economic hardships, and neglect by authorities. The demonstrations highlight widespread dissatisfaction with government policies, ranging from education to pensions.
In Tehran, students at Beheshti University gathered to protest a gas leak that caused carbon monoxide poisoning in a dormitory on December 6, leaving 44 students hospitalized. Despite earlier promises, heating systems remain unfixed, forcing some students to spend nights in freezing conditions. During the protest, students chanted, “The student needs safety, not excuses,” and demanded the resignation of the university president. Videos from the rally showed placards reading, “Incompetent leadership, resign!” A student told local media, “Instead of addressing our concerns, the university president dismissed us, saying, ‘Every day you gather for a new reason.’”
December 8—Tehran, Iran
Students of Beheshti University rally to protest food poisoning at the dormitory.#IranProtestspic.twitter.com/2rYCVa8RET— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) December 8, 2024
Meanwhile, students of Azad University in Tehran held their own demonstration against steep tuition fee hikes, which they claim are unaffordable and unjustified. Protesting the increasing financial burden, students demanded immediate reforms.
In Kermanshah, western Iran, retirees from the Social Security Organization resumed protests to demand overdue pensions and improved living conditions. Protesters highlighted their worsening economic situation due to inflation and inadequate support.
In Isfahan, central Iran, retirees from the steel industry rallied for higher pensions and access to basic services, continuing weeks of protests over poor economic conditions. Demonstrators called for accountability from officials who have failed to meet their demands.
December 8—Tehran, Iran
Students of Azad University rally to protest a sudden hike in tuition fees.#IranProtests pic.twitter.com/c7U8jmgRk6— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) December 8, 2024
In Ahvaz, southern Iran, pensioners from the Social Security Organization held their own rally, reiterating demands for fair pensions and adequate living conditions.
These protests come amid growing unrest across Iran, with citizens increasingly vocal about systemic failures in governance, safety, and economic policy. From student dormitories to retiree pensions, the demands reveal a population grappling with deepening crises and diminishing faith in government accountability.
December 8—Isfahan, central Iran
Retirees of the steel industry hold protest rally, demanding higher pensions and access to basic services. #IranProtestspic.twitter.com/smyqrv0L0s— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) December 8, 2024
