Expansion of Strikes and Protests on the Ninth Day of Nationwide Uprising Despite Government Repression

On the ninth day of the new wave of nationwide uprising in Iran, on Monday, January 15, strikes and protest gatherings expanded in various cities across the country, continuing despite government repression. In Tehran, merchants in parts of the Grand Bazaar, including the 'Chahargah' and iron market, joined the strikes by closing their shops. Gatherings formed in various areas of Tehran's bazaar, including the Sepahsalar Garden, where protesters shouted anti-government slogans. Additionally, a group of merchants in this area marched to express their discontent with the political and economic situation. Simultaneously, the area around Tehran University and the streets and Revolution Square became heavily secured, with government forces and police vehicles stationed in these areas. Reports indicate that special forces were on standby in front of Tehran University. The strikes were not limited to Tehran. In Marvdasht, reports indicated the market was closed and several shops were shut. In Karaj, Kazeroon, and Bandar Genaveh, merchants also joined the strikes by closing their shops, with published images showing closed streets and shopping centers. In Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, families of detainees in Yasuj gathered in front of the governor's office demanding the release of their children. This gathering faced violent reactions from repressive forces, with government agents attacking the protesters using batons, tear gas, and pepper spray. Reports indicate that several individuals were arrested during these confrontations. Images were also published showing the assault on the families of detainees in front of the Yasuj governor's office. According to reports, dozens to hundreds of teenagers have been detained in various provinces, including Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, Kermanshah, and Qom, with some transferred to detention centers. Educational activists described the repression of students as an act against society and the future of the country, calling for the immediate release of detainees and accountability for those responsible for these actions. In various cities across the country, including Yasuj, Qazvin, Sari, Karaj, Isfahan, Tehran, and cities in the Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, nightly and daily gatherings were held. Published images show protesters expressing their dissatisfaction with the political and economic situation by shouting slogans against the regime, lighting fires in the streets, and holding protest gatherings. Protesters in Karaj burned a banner featuring images of Ruhollah Khomeini and Ali Khamenei. In Ilam, reports indicate that government forces stormed the premises of one of the hospitals. Based on published images, agents entered the hospital premises by firing bullets and tear gas, breaking down doors, and storming inside the wards; an action that has led to widespread reactions. Azad University announced that exams scheduled for January 16 to 19 have been canceled and postponed to the period of February 7 to 10; a decision made in light of the ongoing unrest and security conditions.