Iran News: Protests Escalate Across Iran as Citizens Voice Varied Grievances
Written by
Amir Taghati
In a wave of demonstrations across multiple cities in Iran today, retirees and pensioners of the Social Security Organization voiced their grievances, demanding higher pensions and basic rights. The protests, which took place in Arak, Tehran, Ahvaz, Tabriz, and other locations, reflect widespread dissatisfaction with the current economic conditions and the government’s handling of social welfare.
In Tehran, customers of Iran Khodro, a state-backed carmaker, gathered in front of the offices of the National Competition Council to express their frustration. The carmaker’s decision to withhold the delivery of Pejo Pars purchases and raise prices has sparked outrage among buyers, prompting them to demand transparency and fair treatment.
Also in Tehran, retirees of the Social Security Organization resumed their protests, emphasizing their demand for higher pensions and improved services in accordance with the regime’s laws.
In Arak and Ahvaz, retirees chanted slogans such as “We won’t endure injustice anymore” and “Under the burden of oppression, we can’t afford to live.” Their calls for higher pensions echoed throughout the streets as they gathered outside the offices of the Social Security Organization, demanding that the regime uphold its own laws regarding retirees’ rights.
April 21—Tehran, #Iran
Retirees of the Social Security Organization resume protest rallies, demanding higher pensions and basic services according the regime's own laws. #IranProtests pic.twitter.com/zD4vfNwpOC— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) April 21, 2024
In Ahvaz, dismissed workers of the Iran National Steel Industrial Group (INSIG) staged a rally to protest their unjust termination. The company reportedly fired these workers for advocating for their basic rights, highlighting ongoing labor disputes and the challenges faced by workers in the industrial sector.
Meanwhile, in Isfahan, retirees of the steel industry renewed their protest rallies, emphasizing their demand for higher pensions in alignment with the escalating costs of living. The demonstrations underscore the persistent struggle of retirees to secure financial stability and uphold their rights amidst economic uncertainties.
Similar scenes unfolded in Tabriz, where retirees held a protest rally within the premises of the Tabriz Union, advocating for increased pensions and essential services promised by the government.
In Ghaemshahr, northern Iran, retirees from the steel industry joined the chorus, calling for higher pensions and asserting their basic rights in the face of economic challenges.
April 21—Arak, central #Iran
Retirees and pensioners of the Social Security Organization resume their protests rallies, demanding the regime to raise their pensions according to its own laws.#IranProtests pic.twitter.com/qIKs9oOAZp— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) April 21, 2024
In Sirik, southern Iran, locals assembled to protest the construction of a water desalination plant aimed at transferring seawater to Isfahan. Concerns over environmental impact and resource allocation prompted residents to voice their opposition to the project, reflecting broader environmental and developmental challenges facing coastal communities.
In Shush, more than 400 workers of Pars Paper and Pars Tabiat factory halted their work and rallied in front of local authorities to protest the dismissal of their coworkers. The demonstration underscores the precarious employment conditions and labor disputes prevalent in Iran’s industrial sector.
April 21—Shush, southwest #Iran
More than 400 workers of Pars Paper and Pars Tabiat factory stopped working and rallied in front of Shush to protest the dismissal of their coworkers.#IranProtests pic.twitter.com/24QDg0EaJI— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) April 21, 2024
Additionally, in Takestan, orchard and well owners gathered in front of the governorate to protest water shortages, highlighting the broader socio-economic issues affecting various sectors of society.
April 21—Ahvaz, southwest #Iran
Retirees of the Social Security Organization hold protest rally to reiterate their demands for higher pensions.
"What did these incompetent officials do to this rich country?" protesters chant#IranProtestspic.twitter.com/iRVkibimrr— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) April 21, 2024
These protests, spanning various regions and sectors, underscore the deep-seated grievances and widespread discontent prevailing across Iranian society. As citizens continue to mobilize and demand accountability from authorities, the government faces mounting pressure to either heed the nation or continue to proceed with funneling the country’s wealth toward global terrorism and regional warmongering.