Iran experienced a comprehensive internet shutdown on Thursday as widespread protests over economic hardships intensified across the nation. Internet monitoring organization NetBlocks confirmed the nationwide blackout, though specific details regarding the outage’s technical aspects remained unavailable.
In Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan, witnesses reported continued demonstrations with protesters voicing opposition to the country’s clerical leadership. The unrest represents the most significant wave of dissent witnessed in Iran over the past three years, initially triggered by currency devaluation concerns among Tehran’s merchant community before expanding nationwide.
The protests have emerged against a backdrop of severe economic challenges, including hyperinflation attributed to both domestic mismanagement and international sanctions. Social media posts, which Reuters could not independently verify, indicated some demonstrators expressed support for Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s former Shah, who had previously called for intensified protests through digital channels.
Iranian state media presented a contrasting narrative, maintaining that cities throughout the country remained calm. Meanwhile, President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the economic concerns by warning suppliers against hoarding and price manipulation, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring adequate goods distribution.
The situation develops under substantial international scrutiny, with former U.S. President Donald Trump threatening intervention should security forces employ violence against protesters. This occurs seven months following joint Israeli-American airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.