Protests in Iran have intensified sharply, spreading across much of the country and prompting authorities to impose a nationwide internet blackout. What began as demonstrations over economic distress has now grown into broader public anger against the government and its leadership.
The unrest started in late December when traders at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar protested the falling value of the Iranian rial, rising inflation and increasing prices of essential goods. The demonstrations quickly spread beyond the capital to several major cities, including Mashhad, Isfahan, Shiraz and Tabriz. Over the past several days, crowds have gathered in streets and public squares, chanting slogans critical of the ruling establishment.
As protests grew in size and intensity, the government cut access to mobile networks and the internet, effectively cutting off communication for millions of people. Internet monitoring groups reported a sharp drop in connectivity across the country, suggesting a deliberate move to prevent protesters from organising and sharing information with the outside world.
Human rights organisations say the security forces have responded with force. According to rights groups, more than 40 people have been killed in clashes so far, including civilians and members of the security forces. Thousands of protesters have reportedly been arrested. Videos circulating before the blackout showed police using tear gas and, in some cases, live ammunition to disperse crowds.
Some demonstrators appeared to respond to calls made by exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who urged people to protest against the Islamic Republic. However, analysts say the movement does not have a single leader and is driven largely by public frustration over economic hardship, unemployment and lack of political freedoms.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has blamed foreign powers for the unrest, accusing outside forces of attempting to destabilise the country. State media has downplayed the scale of the protests and focused instead on government efforts to control prices and provide subsidies.
The international community has expressed concern over the violence. Several countries and human rights groups have urged Iranian authorities to show restraint, restore internet access and respect the right to peaceful protest.
