Protests in Iran have entered their second day with a nationwide internet blackout imposed by authorities. This disruption follows over ten days of escalating demonstrations against the government, primarily driven by frustrations over economic conditions and dissatisfaction with the ruling authorities.
Exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last monarch, has called for a nationwide strike lasting two days. In a video message posted on social media platform X, he urged workers in critical sectors, including transportation, oil and gas, and energy, to participate in the strike beginning Saturday, the first day of the workweek in Iran. Pahlavi encouraged demonstrators to take to the streets with national symbols, aiming to reclaim public spaces and send a strong message to the Iranian leadership.
Despite his prominent call to action, it remains uncertain how widely Pahlavi is supported within Iran. He was only 16 years old when the 1979 Islamic Revolution ended his father’s 40-year reign over the country. As the eldest son of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, he was poised to inherit a long-standing leadership role in the oil-rich nation.
The internet blackout, which has now lasted over 36 hours, has significantly hindered communication for many Iranians. According to the watchdog organization NetBlocks, authorities cut internet and telephone services following mass protests in the capital city of Tehran on Thursday. NetBlocks reported, “It’s now 8:00 am in Iran where the sun is rising after another night of protests met with repression; metrics show the nationwide internet blackout remains in place at 36 hours, severely limiting Iranians’ ability to check on the safety of friends and loved ones.”
These protests commenced on December 28, 2023, fueled by rising inflation and growing anger towards Iran’s conservative regime and its violent security forces. The current unrest reflects deep-rooted discontent among the populace, manifesting in calls for change and an end to government oppression.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with many expressing concern for the safety and rights of those participating in the demonstrations. The outcome of these protests remains uncertain, but the resolve of the Iranian people appears steadfast as they continue to express their demands for reform.
