Iran Protests Intensify Amidst Global Reactions; Georgia Addresses Domestic Concerns, Economic Trends, and Sports Triumphs
International attention remained heavily focused on the escalating protests in Iran, with reports indicating a tragic death toll of at least 65 individuals. Global leaders swiftly reacted, as former US President Donald Trump expressed solidarity with the Iranian people, cautioning against violence, while Ursula von der Leyen of the European Union condemned the forceful suppression of peaceful demonstrations. Contradicting this, Iran's Foreign Minister accused Israel and the United States of orchestrating the unrest. Further complicating geopolitical dynamics, China, Russia, and Iran were noted to be conducting joint naval exercises off the coast of South Africa.
Domestically, Georgia experienced a day marked by ongoing public discourse and judicial developments. Tbilisi was the scene of various protests, including a "Saturday March" and a demonstration at the Iranian Embassy, reflecting local engagement with both internal and international issues. President Salome Zurabishvili voiced strong criticism against the prosecution of a peaceful demonstrator for merely standing on a sidewalk, calling it a sign of "authoritarian rule." Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry announced the arrest of four individuals in Chiatura following a group assault on a police officer, and investigations continued into a fire that broke out at the "Golden Ark" shopping center in Tbilisi.
Economically, Georgia's position on the global stage was highlighted by its ranking as the 116th most expensive country out of 155 in Numbeo's 2026 Cost of Living Index. The national currency, the Georgian Lari, saw varied performance, depreciating against the US Dollar while strengthening against the Euro. Trade data revealed a significant 54% decrease in mandarin exports, with Russia purchasing 75% of the remaining volume. Live pig imports, exclusively from Russia, reached a record high. Despite these fluctuations, the United Nations projected a robust 5.4% economic growth for Georgia in 2026.
Georgian athletes brought positive news from the world of sports. In football, Giorgi Mikautadze scored his 6th goal for Villarreal in La Liga 2, contributing to a victory, while Yuri Tabatadze also found the net in Spain. Rugby saw the national team appoint Pierre-Henri Broncan as its new head coach, and the "Black Lion" franchise secured a notable away win in the Challenge Cup. Additionally, UFC stars Merab Dvalishvili and Ilia Topuria were recognized for their substantial earnings in 2025, underscoring Georgian excellence in international combat sports.