Mass Protests Erupt Across Iran as Government Imposes Nationwide Internet Blackout
Tehran, January 12, 2026 — Mass protests have intensified across Iran as demonstrators challenge the government amid a nationwide internet and communications blackout imposed by authorities, heightening global concern over human rights and political stability.
The protests, now entering their second week, originated in late December over deepening economic hardship, inflation, and currency collapse but have evolved into widespread anti-government demonstrations, according to international monitors. Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, and dozens of other cities, despite aggressive efforts by the state to suppress both physical and digital communication.
Since early this week, Iran’s authorities have enforced a near-total internet shutdown, cutting off mobile data, social media, and most forms of digital communication to curb coordination among protesters and restrict international reporting. Monitoring groups such as NetBlocks have reported connectivity levels plummeting to tiny fractions of normal traffic, making independent verification of events increasingly difficult.
Human rights organizations say the crackdown has been brutal. Official figures and rights groups report hundreds of protesters killed and thousands detained in clashes with security forces, though exact casualty numbers vary due to the blackout and information suppression.
Despite the blackout, some Iranians are leveraging satellite internet services such as Starlink to share limited footage and updates with the outside world, though these signals have also faced disruption efforts by authorities.
International reaction has been swift. Leaders from Western governments have condemned the violence and urged Iran to restore communications and respect the rights to peaceful assembly. The United States has indicated that diplomatic and technological avenues are being explored to help restore connectivity.
As the situation evolves, the world is watching closely — with protests showing no sign of abating even as digital silence deepens and pressure mounts on Iran’s leadership.
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