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Iran Protests Escalate Amid Crackdown and Internet Blackout
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Teh ongoing demonstrations in Iran represent the most notable challenge to the islamic Republic’s authority in years, with protesters defying an escalating crackdown and a near-total internet shutdown.Reports emerging from the country, despite restricted access, indicate widespread unrest fueled by economic grievances and demands for political reform, and increasingly, direct calls for the overthrow of the current regime.
defiance in the Face of Repression
Demonstrations have continued across Iran since erupting on December 28th, spreading to all 31 of the country’s provinces. More than 570 protests have been recorded, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.Videos smuggled out of Iran show thousands demonstrating in Tehran overnight into Saturday, chanting slogans such as “Death to Khamenei,” targeting Supreme Leader ayatollah ali Khamenei, and, surprisingly, “Long live the shah,” echoing support for the Pahlavi dynasty ousted in the 1979 revolution.
New protests broke out late Saturday in a northern district of Tehran, verified by AFP footage, showcasing the protesters’ continued resolve. Dramatic scenes have emerged, including a mosque set ablaze in Tehran on January 10, 2026, and fireworks illuminating Punak Square as demonstrators banged pots and pans – a customary form of protest – while voicing support for the Pahlavi rulers. In mashhad, the supreme leader’s home town, crowds marched through the streets amidst burning fires, a bold act of defiance.
A Nation Silenced: The Internet Shutdown
Authorities imposed a widespread internet shutdown, severely restricting access to information and communication. this blackout, now in its fifth day, is aimed at stifling the protests and preventing the dissemination of images and videos documenting the unrest. Despite the restrictions, protesters are utilizing VPNs and satellite internet to share information with the outside world, though access remains limited and risky.
US Response and Escalating Tensions
The US has voiced support for the Iranian people, with President Biden stating, “We stand with the citizens of Iran who are inspiring the world with their bravery.” Former President Trump took a more aggressive stance, warning, “If they start shooting at people, we’ll start shooting too.” He reiterated US support on Saturday, declaring, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” in a post on Truth Social.
These statements have provoked a strong response from Iran. The country’s parliament speaker, Mohammad bagher Qalibaf, warned on Sunday that both the US military and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” should the US strike Iran. This represents the first time Israel has been explicitly included in potential retaliatory targets. Lawmakers reportedly shouted “Death to America!” during Qalibaf’s address.
Escalating Stakes and Calls for Regime Change
Iranian authorities have warned against participation in protests, with the Attorney General, Mohammad Mahvadi Azad, declaring anyone involved an “enemy of god” – a charge punishable by death. State TV later expanded this threat,stating even assisting protesters could carry the same penalty.
Despite the risks, protests are planned for the weekend, fueled by the exiled son of the former shah, Reza Pahlavi. Pahlavi, gaining popularity as a figurehead for the opposition, has called on protesters to “seize city centres and hold them,” promising his imminent return to Iran. He urged supporters to raise the pre-1979 “lion and sun” flag, symbolizing the previous regime.
The regime’s vulnerability has been heightened by a recent 12-day war with Israel and losses among Iranian-backed forces in the region, according to analysts. Authorities are increasingly portraying protesters as foreign agents, infiltrated and backed by Israel and the US.The Iranian army vowed to foil “the enemy’s plots,” declaring that undermining national security is a “red line.” state TV attempts to project an image of normalcy, downplaying the protests as minor disturbances.
A grim Reality on the Ground
Videos verified by Iran Human Rights group depict harrowing scenes of family members searching through bodies at Ghadir hospital in Tehran,reportedly victims of state violence. Simultaneously occurring, Fars news agency, affiliated with Iranian security services, aired what human rights activists condemn as forced confessions from protesters – frequently enough used as evidence in capital punishment cases.
Activists are imploring international media to continue covering the crisis, emphasizing the severity of the violence. “Please make sure to state clearly that they are killing people with live ammunition,” one Iranian activist pleaded. The continuing internet blackout and lack of independent verification make it tough to assess the full scale of the
