As nationwide protests in Iran enter their second week, an unexpected development has emerged online: large numbers of mainland Chinese social media users are openly expressing support for Iranian demonstrators, a rare phenomenon given China’s tightly controlled digital space.
Videos of protests circulating on Chinese platforms have drawn thousands of comments cheering on Iranian crowds and condemning Iran’s leadership. Many commenters have directly criticised Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with some describing him as a “religious tyrant” and calling for political change.
Protests enter 11th day
As of January 7, Iran’s protests have continued for 11 consecutive days. The unrest began on December 28, 2025, when merchants at Tehran’s historic Grand Bazaar launched a strike in response to soaring inflation and the sharp fall of the rial. What started as an economic protest has since expanded into a nationwide movement involving shopkeepers, students, and urban residents.
Demonstrations have spread to multiple major cities, with protesters clashing with security forces and chanting slogans demanding the current regime step down. Videos shared online show crowds forcing police to retreat, occupying public buildings, and burning portraits of Khamenei. Reports indicate that at least 35 people have been killed and over 1,200 detained so far.
Support floods Chinese social media
On Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, videos documenting the Iranian protests have gone viral. Comment sections are filled with messages encouraging protesters and praising their resolve.
Common remarks include calls for unity, appeals for dignity and better living conditions for future generations, and statements suggesting that determined collective action can succeed even without weapons. On January 5, the ninth day of protests, several widely shared clips attracted thousands of supportive comments such as “We support the Iranian people” and “Justice will win”.
Some Chinese users went further, warning that Iran’s unrest could serve as a mirror for China’s own economic and social pressures.
Beijing moves to curb discussion
Political analyst Jiang Feng noted that Chinese authorities appear to be moving quickly to limit discussion of the Iranian protests. Keywords such as “Tehran” and “rial” have reportedly been flagged as sensitive on WeChat, making it harder for users to search or openly discuss developments.
At the same time, People’s Daily published commentary citing Iranian experts who suggested Iran should “learn from China” and deepen cooperation through forums such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Jiang described this messaging as an attempt to prevent comparisons that could unsettle domestic audiences.
Wider implications for China
Commentators writing on X said Iran’s protests illustrate how economic hardship can quickly turn into political unrest. They argued that online sentiment in China shows growing unease at the grassroots level, even if public expression remains constrained.
Analysts warn that rising living costs, job insecurity, and tighter controls could create similar pressures elsewhere if left unaddressed. “History shows authoritarian systems fear internal collapse more than external threats,” one commentator wrote, suggesting that Iran’s turmoil is being watched closely in Beijing.
As Iran’s protests continue, the strong reaction from Chinese netizens underscores how events beyond China’s borders can resonate deeply at home, even in an environment shaped by censorship and surveillance.