Iran Protests and the Internet Blackout: What Happened

Protests began in Iran on December 28, 2025, after the national currency fell sharply and the cost of living rose. They have since spread to at least 46 cities, including Tehran, Mashhad and Yasuj, and many towns have seen large demonstrations. Human rights groups have documented the use of firearms, tear gas and beatings by security forces, and human rights organizations have called for independent investigations into reported killings and arrests.

The rial plummeted and food prices rose sharply, which fuelled public anger. Communications were largely cut on the evening of January 8, 2026, when internet and mobile access were blocked, and the blackout has made it hard to verify events on the ground. While exact casualty figures differ, some counts published by rights monitors are above 500, and other tallies are lower; thousands of people have been detained. The United Nations and a UN fact-finding mission have urged Iranian authorities to restore internet access and exercise restraint. Although governments internationally have warned against escalation, the situation remains tense and further information may continue to emerge.