Protests in Iran are escalating as the nation enters the second day of an internet blackout, which was enforced by authorities amid widespread unrest. The situation follows over ten days of demonstrations against the government, driven by growing dissatisfaction with rising inflation and the actions of the ruling conservative regime.
The protests have garnered attention from both domestic and international observers, with reports indicating that they have intensified significantly since they began on December 28, 2023. The ongoing unrest has prompted Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last monarch, to call for a nationwide strike. In a video message posted on X, Pahlavi urged workers in essential sectors, including transportation, oil and gas, and energy, to halt operations for two days, starting Saturday, the first day of the workweek in Iran.
Pahlavi’s appeal seeks to mobilize citizens to take to the streets, carrying flags and other national symbols. He emphasized the importance of reclaiming public spaces, stating, “The goal is to prepare to seize city centers and hold them.” His message follows significant protests that he claims have sent a strong signal to Iran’s leadership.
While Pahlavi has a prominent profile in exile, his actual popularity within Iran remains uncertain. He was only 16 years old when the 1979 Islamic Revolution led to the fall of his father’s 40-year reign. As the first in line to inherit the once-powerful Pahlavi dynasty, he continues to advocate for change in Iran from abroad.
The internet blackout, which has now lasted over 36 hours, was implemented as protests erupted in the capital, Tehran, and beyond. According to the internet monitoring organization NetBlocks, the blackout began on Thursday, severely restricting Iranians’ ability to communicate and check on the safety of friends and family amid the unrest.
NetBlocks reported, “It’s now 8:00 am in Iran where the sun is rising after another night of protests met with repression.” The organization highlighted the challenges posed by the blackout, noting that it limits access to critical information during a time of heightened tension.
The protests stem from a combination of economic grievances and discontent with the government’s oppressive measures. Many Iranians have expressed their frustration over economic hardships, including soaring inflation, which has exacerbated existing social tensions.
As the situation develops, the international community is closely monitoring events in Iran, where the intersection of economic struggles and political dissent continues to shape the landscape of public sentiment.
