Iran is experiencing a nationwide internet blackout, according to online monitoring group NetBlocks, amid escalating protests over a worsening economic crisis. The blackout follows “a series of escalating digital censorship measures targeting protests” and hinders the public’s right to communicate at a critical moment.
Protesters have taken to the streets in cities across Iran since late December, driven by anger over the soaring cost of living and the devaluation of the local currency. At least 45 people, including eight children, have been killed since the demonstrations began, according to Iran Human Rights (IHR).
The protests have spread to all 31 provinces, with shopkeepers in Kurdish regions and beyond heeding calls for a general strike. The Iranian authorities have offered mixed messages in response to the unrest, with President Masoud Pezeshkian calling for “utmost restraint” in handling the demonstrations.
Internet Blockout- Supreme Leader Respond to the Riots
However, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said rioters must be “put in their place,” and Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei accused demonstrators of “operating in line” with the United States and Israel.
The United Nations has expressed concern over the situation, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calling for authorities to uphold the right to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.
The economic crisis has led to soaring food prices, with everyday necessities becoming increasingly unaffordable for Iranians. Food prices have surged by over 70% in the past year, while medicine costs have risen by 50%.
The government’s ability to address the root causes of the protests is severely limited, and analysts speculate that the authorities may feel more vulnerable following recent conflicts with Israel and mounting international pressure.
US President Donald Trump has threatened intervention if Iran harms protesters, while the US State Department has openly supported the demonstrations, sharing footage of protesters displaying pro-Trump stickers.
Iran Civil Unrest- Internet Blockout a Way to Silence Voices Inside The Country
The protests mark the largest outbreak of civil unrest in Iran since the 2022 ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ demonstrations, though they have yet to reach the same scale.
Iranian authorities have previously resorted to internet shutdowns to suppress dissent during times of unrest, and the current blackout is likely aimed at limiting communication and coverage of the protests.
NetBlocks has reported outages in several cities, including Kermanshah, Esfahan, and Shiraz, with social media accounts indicating widespread internet restrictions.
The Iranian government attributes the economic crisis to external pressures, particularly Western sanctions, but critics argue that systemic corruption and mismanagement play a significant role.
Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has attempted to fill the void, urging Iranians to show support by shouting from their windows at 8 p.m. local time.
Authorities have reportedly deployed intelligence agents and drones to intimidate participants, highlighting the government’s determination to suppress the movement.
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