Iran's rial hit a record low in Jan 2026 amid protests, economic crisis, and government reforms.

Iran's rial fell to 1.5 million USD, a record low. dollar in January 2026, as a result of widespread protests over living expenses, economic mismanagement, and hyperinflation. The crisis, which the U.S. Human rights organizations have reported over 6,100 deaths and over 41,000 arrests as a result of the widespread unrest caused by sanctions and subsidy reforms. In addition to proposing a subsidy reform, the government intends to eliminate four zeros from the currency over a five-year period. Regional tensions increased as the U.S. continued to impose restrictions on internet access. sent military equipment to the Middle East.