Massive protests erupted in Kazakhstan following a sharp rise in liquefied petroleum gas prices. This increase particularly affected the western regions of the country, where many citizens rely on gas for heating and transportation. Initially starting in the city of Zhanaozen, the unrest quickly spread to major cities including Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, and Aktobe. Demonstrators were prompted not only by the fuel price hike but also by broader grievances regarding economic conditions, lack of political freedoms, and government corruption. As protests gained momentum, thousands of people took to the streets demanding actionable change from the government.

The Kazakh government responded with force, deploying security forces to disperse crowds and halt demonstrations. In the ensuing clashes, a considerable number of civilians and police officers were injured, and at least 238 people were reported dead by January 11. The government's reaction also led to international concern regarding human rights abuses and the use of force against peaceful protesters. Amid the crisis, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev declared a state of emergency and sought help from the Collective Security Treaty Organization, a military alliance of former Soviet states, which sent troops to assist local forces.

The unrest brought significant international attention to Kazakhstan, highlighting the country's ongoing struggles with political dissent. The widespread protests reflected underlying frustrations with the government and economic disparities, leading to calls for political reform and significant change within the ruling administration. In a bid to quell the unrest, the government announced the reversal of the gas price hike and other measures aimed at addressing the demands of protesters. However, the long-term implications of the protests raised questions about stability and governance in Kazakhstan moving forward.