Alborz, a textile merchant from Isfahan, closed his shop and joined tens of thousands in protests across Iran. His decision came after the Iranian rial fell sharply to 1.42 million to the US dollar, a 56% drop in six months. This pushed prices up with food costs increasing by 72% compared to last year. The protests have spread from Tehran to multiple cities. Students have occupied universities and merchants have shut their stores. Roads are blocked and protesters clash with police despite the risk of arrests. Alborz said, “What will my children eat? Do we have to bring suitcases of cash to simply buy bread? Do you find that normal?” He spoke under a fake name fearing government reprisals. Iran’s economy is under heavy strain from international sanctions, limited access to frozen funds, and rising imports. These economic pressures, combined with anger over governance, have turned protests into a call for regime change. In Tehran, chants of “death to the dictator” and “woman, life, freedom” echo, slogans that could land protesters in jail. Student leader Farhad said, “There is no willingness from any of us to talk to them, we want the mullahs gone and we want democracy.” The government called for dialogue, with President Masoud Pezeshkian saying protesters’ demands are legitimate. But protesters doubt this is sincere, pointing to reports of arrests, beatings, and teargas use. A protester shared a photo of a pellet shot by security forces. Meanwhile, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps vowed to confront any unrest, accusing enemies of spreading sedition through psychological warfare. On the international front, former US President Donald Trump hinted at possible strikes on Iran if nuclear activities resume, though Iran denies enriching uranium and insists its program is peaceful. Despite intimidation, protesters remain defiant. Alborz said, “We are not going to open shops until the regime weakens further.” The movement expects trade unions to join merchants soon in strikes.