In a major Breaking News development, Iran remains largely cut off from the outside world more than a week after the government imposed a nationwide internet blackout. The shutdown followed deadly protests that spread across the country in December and early January, leaving many Iranians isolated, anxious, and unsure about what will happen next.
With armed forces heavily deployed on the streets and courts preparing trials for accused protesters, the situation in Iran continues to dominate Latest News and Daily news highlights worldwide.
Internet Blackout Leaves Millions in Isolation
Iran, a country of around 90 million people, saw its internet completely shut down on the night of January 8. The government took this step as protests grew larger and more intense across all 31 provinces.
The demonstrations first began when shopkeepers in central Tehran closed their stores to protest rising prices and worsening economic conditions. These peaceful actions quickly turned into mass protests against Iran’s clerical leadership.
Along with internet access, mobile networks were also blocked. For several hours, people could not even make phone calls or reach emergency services. Although authorities later restored a limited internal network, access to global websites and social media platforms remains mostly unavailable.
Even now, text messaging services are still blocked, and only outgoing international phone calls have been partially restored.
Government Blames Foreign Interference
Iranian officials have not released official numbers for those killed during the protests. However, the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), based in the United States, reported that more than 2,600 people may have died. The Iranian government strongly denies this figure, calling it exaggerated and misleading.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a recent interview that reports of mass killings and possible executions are part of a “misinformation campaign.” He accused the United States and Israel of using these claims to increase pressure on Iran.
Authorities admit that civilians, including women and children, have died. However, they insist that the violence was caused by “terrorist elements” supported by foreign powers, not by state forces. Iran also claims that members of its own security forces were killed during the unrest.
Because of the ongoing internet blackout, independent media outlets and international organizations have been unable to verify casualty numbers.
Heavy Security and Fear on the Streets
Since the protests turned deadly, streets in Tehran and other major cities have become quiet. Many people are staying indoors, worried about arrests or further violence.
Security forces are now highly visible, with armed patrols, checkpoints, and surveillance across cities. The government has also organized large pro-state rallies and public funerals for fallen security personnel.
State television has described participants in these rallies as “the real people of Iran.” Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised them, saying they stopped a foreign-backed plot aimed at destabilizing the country.
At the same time, Iran’s judiciary has announced fast-track trials for those accused of taking part in what officials call “riots.” The Chief Justice has promised “no mercy,” raising serious concerns among human rights groups.
International Reaction and UN Concerns
The crisis has drawn global attention. At an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, Iranian representatives blamed the deaths on outside interference, while international officials stressed the need to avoid violence against protesters.
The United Nations has urged Iran to allow peaceful demonstrations and restore communication services. However, it has also warned against any foreign military intervention, amid fears that tensions between Iran and the United States could escalate.
Former US President Donald Trump said earlier this week that he had received assurances Iran would not execute protesters. Iranian state media later denied reports that any death sentences had been issued.
Economic Pressure Fuels Public Anger
President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the nation after the protests but focused mainly on condemning violent groups and promising economic reforms. He did not directly mention the internet blackout.
To ease public anger, the government has announced a temporary electronic coupon system. Under this plan, citizens will receive small monthly credits to buy basic food items. However, many Iranians say this is not enough, as inflation, unemployment, and currency devaluation continue to hurt daily life.
Economic hardship remains one of the main reasons behind repeated protests in Iran over the past few years.
Protests Part of a Wider Pattern
This is not the first time Iran has faced nationwide unrest. In 2022, protests erupted after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in custody after being arrested for allegedly violating hijab rules. That movement, led largely by women, shocked the nation and drew global support.
However, the current protests are believed to be the largest and deadliest Iran has seen in recent years. What began as economic frustration has now turned into a major political and human rights crisis.
As Iran remains under digital lockdown, the world watches closely. Whether the internet is restored soon — and whether tensions ease or grow — will shape the country’s future in the coming weeks.
