Iran was plunged into a nationwide internet blackout on Thursday night, January 8 as mass anti-government protests spread across the country, with demonstrators chanting slogans against the ruling theocratic regime amid growing anger over economic hardship and security crackdowns.
Authorities cut internet access and telephone lines shortly after protests erupted in Tehran and several major cities. Despite the blackout, videos of the demonstrations continued to circulate online, as the unrest entered its second week.
Cybersecurity experts say nationwide shutdowns are typically imposed when authorities anticipate the use of deadly force against protesters, aimed at restricting the flow of information and limiting international scrutiny.
From the western province of Ilam near the Iraqi border to Tehran and the northeastern city of Mashhad, demonstrations have taken place in more than 100 cities since the unrest began nearly two weeks ago. Security forces have responded with force, following a familiar pattern of suppression without addressing the root causes of public anger.
Human rights groups say at least 45 protesters, including eight children, have been killed since the demonstrations began. Hundreds have been injured and more than 2,000 people detained, according to rights monitors.
Some protesters appeared to be responding to calls by exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi to take to the streets. Slogans such as “This is the last battle, Pahlavi will return” were heard during marches, according to footage reviewed by international media. Pahlavi urged Iranians to unite and continue protesting, telling supporters to “rise” and demand change.
Verified videos showed large crowds blocking roads, setting fires and clashing with security forces in several cities. State media acknowledged “scattered” protests and reported damage to public and private property, along with unspecified casualties.
The unrest has drawn international attention. US President Donald Trump warned that Washington would respond forcefully if Iranian security forces continue killing protesters, repeating earlier threats during a radio interview.
What began as organized protests by shopkeepers and students in Tehran’s bazaars and universities has evolved into widespread street demonstrations. Violence escalated after security forces were deployed to disperse crowds.
Millions of Iranians are struggling with soaring inflation, a collapsing currency and shortages of basic goods and medicine. Many say prices are rising by the hour, leaving households unable to cope.
Journalists and activists say the protests have moved beyond economic grievances. Demonstrators are now openly calling for an end to the Islamic Republic, arguing that the system is no longer capable of reform.
The protests were initially sparked when shopkeepers in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar protested worsening economic policies. The situation intensified after the central bank ended a program that allowed some importers access to cheaper foreign currency, triggering sharp overnight price increases for basic goods and forcing many businesses to close.
Authorities attempted to ease tensions by announcing small monthly cash handouts, but officials acknowledged the measure would not resolve the crisis.
Protest hotspots have emerged in provinces such as Ilam and Lorestan, where crowds have chanted slogans directly challenging Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In several cities, protesters were seen burning government buildings, tearing down national flags and clashing with security forces.
Human rights groups say state forces have used live ammunition in some areas and carried out mass arrests. Iranian authorities claim hundreds of police and paramilitary personnel have been injured, while state media reports that several security personnel have also been killed.
The scale of the unrest is the largest since the protests that followed the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in 2022. Analysts say the involvement of bazaar merchants, historically a key support base of the regime, marks a significant shift and signals deeper discontent.
The protests are unfolding amid heightened regional tensions and renewed threats of foreign military action, further increasing pressure on Iran’s leadership.
