A wave of protests is sweeping across Iran as citizens rise up against economic collapse and theocratic rule, sending shockwaves through the region and drawing international attention. Social media has captured moments of courage and defiance against an oppressive regime, signaling a nation on the brink of historic change.
In a post shared on X, journalist Hananya Naftali captured a symbolic moment as Iranians tore down the flag of the Islamic Republic, declaring, “Freedom is near.”
Iranians tear down the flag of the Islamic Republic.
— Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) December 31, 2025
FREEDOM IS NEAR. pic.twitter.com/P0CeGD00to
Across the capital and other major cities, demonstrators chanted slogans that directly challenge the ruling regime. According to ABC News, “death to the dictator” and ““Seyyed Ali will be toppled this year” were part of those chants. The outlet also noted that protests erupted initially over soaring inflation and the collapse of the Iranian rial, with shopkeepers in Tehran’s largest mobile phone market shutting their businesses in protest. Students quickly joined the movement, calling for freedom and an end to the regime’s rule.
The Islamic Republic’s authorities have acknowledged the protests but have issued warnings. As CBS News noted, Iran’s prosecutor general stated, “Any attempt to turn economic protests into a tool of insecurity… will inevitably be met with a legal, proportionate and decisive response.” Security forces have reportedly used tear gas and live ammunition in some areas, while other videos show protestors standing fearlessly against heavily armed militias.
In an X post by Nioh Berg, a video was shared of chaos erupting in Hamedan.
For those who don’t know, Hamedan is one of the world’s most ancient cities.
It carried the name Ecbatana historically and in the Bible. It’s where Cyrus the Great commissioned the Second Temple, and it’s also where Esther and Mordechai’s tomb is located.
And today, it’s a battleground between proud Iranians and a demonic horde.
Pray for this beautiful city under siege.
Chaos and gunfire in Hamedan, Iran tonight.
— 𝐍𝐢𝐨𝐡 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐠 ♛ ✡︎ (@NiohBerg) December 30, 2025
For those who don't know, Hamedan is one of the world's most ancient cities.
It carried the name Ecbatana historically and in the Bible. It's where Cyrus the Great commissioned the Second Temple, and it's also where Esther and… pic.twitter.com/qPhIa3VmxI
Berg also shared another post, claiming that the city of Fasa “has fallen into the hands of the Iranian people.”
BREAKING:
— 𝐍𝐢𝐨𝐡 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐠 ♛ ✡︎ (@NiohBerg) December 31, 2025
The city of Fasa has fallen into the hands of the Iranian people. They're chanting "Reza Shah, bless your soul" from inside the governor's seat of power.
Incredible.
pic.twitter.com/DfQvLfJpxK
The protests have not gone unnoticed internationally. As CBS further noted, The U.S. State Department tweeted its concern, emphasizing that “demanding basic rights is not a crime. The Islamic Republic must respect the rights of the Iranian people and end the repression.” Israeli intelligence also extended support via social media, encouraging citizens to “go out into the streets together.”
Human rights advocate Goldie Ghamari further took to X to share the news, writing: “Islamic Regime forces are RETREATING from the anti-Islam pro-Shah demonstrators.”
These protests represent more than economic discontent—they are a spiritual and cultural outcry for justice, freedom and dignity. While the road ahead remains uncertain, one thing is clear: a nation long silenced is now boldly declaring that they are ready for true liberty.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
