ABDANAN, IRAN January 6, 2026 – Large crowds poured into the streets of Abdanan in western Iran’s Ilam province on Tuesday night, adding to the momentum of nationwide anti-government protests that have entered their tenth day.
Video footage circulating on social media shows thousands of people marching down a wide urban street under nighttime streetlights, with many holding up mobile phones creating a sea of flashing lights. The dense gathering appears peaceful in the shared clip, with protesters walking in unison toward the camera, filling the roadway from side to side.
The demonstrations in Abdanan come amid widespread unrest across Iran, sparked initially by economic grievances including soaring inflation and the collapse of the rial. Protests have since spread to at least 17-27 of Iran’s 31 provinces, evolving into direct challenges against the clerical establishment with chants such as “Death to Khamenei” and calls for regime change.
Human rights groups report at least 25-35 deaths and over 1,200 arrests since the protests began, with security forces accused of using tear gas and live fire in some confrontations, particularly in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar.
In Abdanan specifically, reports from exile-based media and social media accounts claim protesters have temporarily taken control of parts of the city, with unverified allegations that local security forces withdrew or even defected to join the crowds. Some footage shows chants in support of restoring the monarchy, including “Javid Shah” (Long live the Shah).
Iranian authorities have acknowledged the unrest, with President Masoud Pezeshkian stating he takes responsibility and calling for corrective actions, while offering limited monthly payments to citizens in an attempt to ease economic pressures.
The protests represent one of the most significant challenges to the Islamic Republic in recent years, amplified by ongoing regional tensions and economic strain.
Major international outlets, including BBC, Reuters, and The New York Times, have reported on the broadening scope of the demonstrations, noting their persistence despite internet restrictions and security crackdowns.
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