Iran sees wave of retiree and worker protests over wages, insurance and living costs

On 20‑21 Tir (early July 2025), groups of retirees and workers staged demonstrations across several Iranian cities. In Isfahan, retired telecom and steel employees gathered outside the governor’s office, demanding better pension adjustments and enforcement of compensation rules. In Tehran, retirees and Saipa car‑dealers protested delayed vehicle deliveries and invoice issues. In Ahvaz, workers at the pipe‑manufacturing plant walked off the job after their health insurance was abruptly cancelled, marking the second such strike this year. Parallel rallies were held in Shush, Kermanshah, Ahvaz and parts of Gilan, where pensioners called for free medical care, higher pensions in line with inflation, and an end to economic hardship. The protests reflect widespread dissatisfaction with rising living costs, delayed pension increases, and deteriorating social‑security benefits throughout Iran.