Iranian Protests Erupt Despite Internet Shutdown
A call by Iran’s exiled crown prince for demonstrations led to Iranian protesters taking to the streets in defiance of the country’s government cutting off internet and international telephone calls. The protests, which began over Iran’s struggling economy, have escalated into a significant challenge to the government.
Short online videos shared by activists showed protesters chanting against the Iranian government around bonfires, with debris littering the streets in Tehran and other areas.
State Media Allegations and Crackdown Signals
Iranian state media finally broke its silence over the protests, accusing “terrorist agents” of the US and Israel of instigating violence. The media also reported “casualties” without providing further details. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei indicated in a televised address that authorities would crack down on the demonstrators, with the audience chanting “Death to America!”
Khamenei criticized the protesters, stating that they were “ruining their own streets to make the president of another country happy,” in reference to US President Donald Trump.
Escalation of Protests and International Support
The demonstrations, which have resulted in at least 42 deaths and over 2,270 detentions, have intensified since they began on December 28. The protests also marked the first public response to Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi’s call for action. Pahlavi, the son of the former Shah of Iran, urged Iranians to take to the streets to challenge the Islamic Republic.
Despite the communications blackout implemented by the Iranian government, the protests continued, with Pahlavi calling for further demonstrations on Friday night. The shutdown of the internet was seen as an attempt to prevent the world from witnessing the protests and potentially to enable security forces to suppress the demonstrators.
International Response and Future Plans
Pahlavi called on European leaders to join Trump in holding the Iranian regime accountable for its actions. He highlighted the need to restore communication to the Iranian people to ensure their voices are heard. Pahlavi’s support from Israel has drawn criticism, especially following recent conflicts between Israel and Iran.
While some demonstrators have expressed support for the former Shah, it remains unclear whether they advocate for Pahlavi’s return or a desire to revert to pre-revolutionary times. The internet blackout also impacted Iran’s state-run news agencies, with state TV acknowledging the protests and reporting instances of violence and property damage.
Trump’s Response and International Concerns
President Trump reiterated his warning to Iran, stating that the US would intervene if peaceful protesters were violently suppressed. Amid concerns over the escalating situation in Iran, Trump hinted at potential regime change and speculated on Ayatollah Khamenei’s intentions to leave the country.
As the protests continue and international pressure mounts, the future of Iran’s government remains uncertain, with the Iranian people bravely voicing their discontent despite significant challenges.
