Iran offers £5-a-month vouchers to citizens as protests continue

Iran announced 10 million rial in vouchers per person to be distributed over four months, reported as about £5, while protests and security deployments continue; officials said they would hold direct talks with trade unions and merchants.

Iran's government announced a financial package offering every citizen vouchers worth 10 million rial to be distributed over four months. The move comes amid widespread protests that began during a severe economic downturn and rising inflation. Demonstrations have been reported in multiple cities and authorities have deployed security forces. Officials framed the package as part of efforts to address public grievances. Key developments: - Officials announced 10 million rial in vouchers per person to be distributed over four months, reported as around £5.50 in coverage of the measure. - Protests have continued in several cities with reports of security deployments and clashes, and some outlets report at least 19 demonstrators have died since the unrest began. - Government spokespeople said authorities would hold direct talks with representatives of trade unions and merchants, but provided no detailed timetable. Summary: The government presented the voucher program as a response to the economic crisis and ongoing public unrest. Officials have announced plans for direct dialogue with representatives; timing and precise arrangements remain undetermined at this time.