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.

Demonstrators protested the U.S. intervention in Venezuela on Sunday, Jan. 4 across Detroit. Protesters called on officials to end military action, respect international laws, and urged them to focus on Detroiters in need of resources, and more.

At least 16 people have been killed during a week of unrest in Iran, rights groups said on Sunday, as protests over soaring inflation spread across the country, sparking violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces.

Protests have been organized in cities spanning from New York to California, with demonstrations scheduled throughout the weekend

Iran is experiencing a countrywide shutdown triggered by intensifying protests and a deepening political and economic crisis. This government-ordered shutdown has impacted businesses, educational institutions,

Iran security forces clashed with protesters in Tehran, Shiraz and Kermanshah as opposition groups report gunfire and demonstrators chant "Death to Khamenei" during unrest.

The protests erupted Sunday and gathered pace Monday after the Islamic Republic’s currency, the rial, hit a record low against the dollar. Many in Iran are already struggling with the cost of living, and rising prices have fueled concerns about potential hyperinflation.

The protests began Sunday in downtown Tehran as the Iranian currency hit a new low, but they have since expanded in size and scope, moving beyond the narrower cause of the economy to "freedom and equality" and an end to the regime, evident in the slogans protesters are chanting.