Iran's energy shortage has sparked public anger, with residents blaming crypto mining and government mismanagement for blackouts and water scarcity. Demonstrations have broken out across several towns, with protesters demanding accountability.
The crisis has been exacerbated by record drought, soaring summer heat, and the drying of Lake Urmia. Tehran government buildings have shut down to save electricity, and hospitals face power cuts affecting patient care.
Videos shared on social media show protesters chanting 'water, electricity, life -these are our indisputable rights' as outages hit homes and businesses. Small traders say they cannot keep shops open, while medics in darkened wards have used handheld fans.
Critics say energy is diverted to IRGC-linked crypto mining, while experts warn of long-term mismanagement. President Masoud Pezeshkian has described the situation as 'serious and unimaginable', urging action as public resentment grows ahead of a volatile political season.
