On Thursday night, January 8, Iran experienced a nationwide internet blackout as large-scale anti-government protests spread throughout the nation, with protesters chanting anti-ruling theocratic regime slogans amid mounting resentment over security crackdowns and economic hardship.
Shortly after protests broke out in Tehran and other major cities, authorities shut down phone lines and the internet. As the unrest entered its second week, videos of the protests continued to go viral online despite the blackout.
According to cybersecurity experts, nationwide shutdowns are usually implemented to limit international scrutiny and restrict the flow of information when authorities fear the use of lethal force against demonstrators.
Since the unrest started almost two weeks ago, protests have occurred in more than 100 cities, from Tehran and the northeastern city of Mashhad to the western province of Ilam near the Iraqi border. Without addressing the underlying causes of public indignation, security forces have reacted violently, adhering to a well-known pattern of suppression.
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.