Iran protests escalated as demonstrators clashed with security forces in Tehran and Mashhad, with tear gas deployed amid nationwide strikes, reports say.

Tehran also increasingly cut back its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog, as tensions increased over its nuclear program in recent years. The IAEA’s director-general has warned Iran could build as many as 10 nuclear bombs, should it decide to weaponize its program.

As the U.S. and Israel back Iranians' right to protest against their leaders, authorities in Tehran detain students and declare a sudden holiday.

Iranian Australians have demonstrated across the nation after civil unrest erupted in the streets across Iran.

U.S. officials voice support for Iranian demonstrators as protests intensify following currency crisis, with reports of tear gas and security crackdowns.

The current demonstrations are being described as the most widespread since 2022, when protests erupted following the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody.

Iranian security forces have repressed previous protests with deadly force and arrests, raising the stakes for those who make their complaints public. Videos shared online on Monday showed security forces firing tear gas to disperse some of the protests in Tehran and at least two other cities.