Dubai: Iran faces growing unrest as protests over economic hardships and political grievances enter their second week. Social media footage shows demonstrations spreading across Bojnourd, Kerman, Rasht, Shiraz, Tabriz, and smaller towns, highlighting widespread anger at regime policies and economic collapse.

In an attempt to ease discontent, the Iranian government began distributing new subsidies of 10 million rials (around $7) to heads of households nationwide, more than double the previous amount. Despite this, soaring prices for essentials like cooking oil, poultry, and cheese continue to strain families. The rial has depreciated sharply to over 1.4 million per USD, intensifying the economic crisis under international sanctions.

Maj. Gen. Hatami, speaking to military academy students, emphasized that threats against Iran’s nation and leadership would not go unanswered. “If the enemy commits an error, it will face a more decisive response, and we will cut off the hand of any aggressor,” he said. Hatami is the first regular military officer to lead Iran’s Artesh in decades, after the June war with Israel claimed several top commanders.

Human Rights Activists News Agency reports at least 36 deaths, including four children and two security personnel, with over 2,100 arrests across 310 locations in 28 provinces. Authorities continue to crack down on demonstrators amid warnings of escalating unrest.

Hatami’s statements follow Trump’s remarks that the U.S. would intervene if Iran violently suppressed peaceful protesters. The comments have gained prominence after the U.S. raid on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a longtime Tehran ally. Iran describes the situation as a “full-fledged economic war,” with officials calling for systemic reforms to tackle corruption and rentier policies.

While there are no immediate signs of an Iranian attack, Hatami’s warning underscores Tehran’s readiness to respond to perceived external threats. The protests continue to test both the country’s domestic stability and its response to international pressure.
(With AFP inputs)