Iran Faces Nationwide Internet Blackout Amid Protests

Iran Struggles with National Internet Outage

Iran is experiencing a nationwide internet blackout, according to the online monitoring group NetBlocks, amid escalating protests fueled by a severe economic crisis. In a social media post, NetBlocks highlighted that this apparent blackout follows "a series of digital censorship measures targeting protests across the country and hindering the public's right to communicate during critical times."

Protesters have taken to the streets in cities across Iran since late December, voicing their dissatisfaction with soaring living costs and the devaluation of the local currency. Since the onset of demonstrations, at least 21 individuals, including law enforcement personnel, have been reported killed, as per a tally by news agency AFP, based on local media sources and official statements.

Iranian authorities have issued mixed messages in response to the social unrest. President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for "maximum restraint" in handling the demonstrations, while Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that those who disturb public order must be "put in their place." The country's highest judge, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, accused demonstrators of acting in accordance with the interests of the United States and Israel, warning that there will be no mercy for those who "create insecurity." He remarked, "Anyone who takes to the streets for riots or supports such actions has no excuse anymore."

On the international front, UN Chief Antonio Guterres emphasized the necessity to prevent further casualties related to the protests, urging authorities to respect rights to free expression, association, and peaceful assembly. "All individuals must be allowed to peacefully protest and express their grievances," stated spokesperson Stephane Dujarric during a briefing.