Iranian Guard Commanders Killed in Protest Violence

Eight members of Iran's powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed during riots in the western city of Kermanshah on Thursday, according to reports. The deaths occurred amid nationwide protests that began on December 28. The demonstrations were sparked by a sharp fall in the value of Iran's currency, the rial, and worsening living conditions. The IRGC is a major military, political, and economic force in Iran. The reported deaths of its members mark a significant escalation in the ongoing unrest.