Over 130 foreign nationals detained in Iran amid recent protests

KABUL (Pajhwok): Iranian police have reportedly arrested 139 foreign nationals in connection with recent protests in Yazd province.

According to Mehr News Agency, Yazd Police Chief Sardar Ahmad Negahban said investigations into the demonstrations revealed that 139 of those detained were foreign nationals.

“These individuals exploited the social climate and existing grievances to play an active role in organising, inciting, and directing riotous activities,” Negahban said. “In some cases, they were also in contact with networks abroad.”

He added that judicial proceedings against the detainees are ongoing and are being conducted in accordance with Iran’s current laws and regulations. The report did not disclose the nationalities of those arrested.

Violent protests erupted across several Iranian cities on December 27, 2025, triggered by economic hardship and the sharp depreciation of the Iranian rial. The demonstrations continued for several days, reflecting widespread public frustration over the country’s financial challenges.
hz/sa