Protests have erupted in Iran for a second week, despite a government-imposed internet shutdown, as rights groups report a growing death toll and allege a violent crackdown on demonstrators. The unrest, initially triggered by economic grievances, has evolved into a widespread movement challenging the authority of the theocratic government.
Iran Protests Continue Amidst Internet Blackout
Videos circulating on social media, despite the internet restrictions, show large crowds protesting in cities including Tehran and Mashhad, with reports of vehicles being set ablaze. The internet blackout, now exceeding 60 hours, is described by Netblocks as a threat to the safety and wellbeing of Iranians.
Rights groups estimate at least 192 protesters have been killed in the last two weeks, though the actual number is feared to be much higher due to the communication restrictions. The Center for Human Rights in Iran reports receiving eyewitness accounts suggesting hundreds have been killed.
“A massacre is unfolding in Iran. The world must act now to prevent further loss of life,” the Center for Human Rights in Iran stated, adding that hospitals are overwhelmed and blood supplies are low. Reports also allege that security forces are deliberately shooting protesters in the eyes.
Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni stated that acts of “vandalism” are decreasing, while National Police Chief Ahmad-Reza Radan announced “significant” arrests of protest figures on Saturday night. Security chief Ali Larijani differentiated between legitimate economic protests and “riots” resembling terrorist tactics.
An AFP journalist in Tehran described the city as being in a state of near paralysis, with many shops closed and security forces deploying in force in the afternoons. The price of meat has nearly doubled since the protests began.
Exiled son of the ousted shah, Reza Pahlavi, has called for continued protests, stating, “Do not abandon the streets. My heart is with you. I know that I will soon be by your side.”
The unrest comes after Israel’s 12-day war against Iran in June, which was backed by the United States. US President Donald Trump has voiced support for the protesters and threatened military action if Iranian authorities kill protestors. Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that Iran would retaliate against the US with attacks on US territory and military assets, including those in Israel, if military action is taken.
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