Iran has imposed a total digital blockade: internet disappears amid unprecedented protests.

According to ТСН: The Iranian authorities have implemented a full digital blockade, cutting off access to the internet in Tehran and other regions. This occurred against the backdrop of new anti-government protests that experts have already labeled as "unprecedented."

According to CBS News, the organization NetBlocks confirmed the nationwide communication blackout around 08:30 local time. Experts note that this happened amid increasing censorship aimed at suppressing the protests.

Sources in Tehran report large crowds in the streets. While some business accounts still had access to the network, soon communication was almost completely absent. Restrictions are also observed in the cities of Isfahan, Shiraz, Ludeghan, and Abdanan.

Tensions rose after the call from exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi to protest the regime. At exactly 20:00, anti-government slogans began echoing from windows in Iran, and people took to the streets. Videos from Mashhad show protesters tearing up the national flags.

Analysts consider this moment critical: the level of response to Pahlavi's call may determine whether these unrests escalate into a serious challenge to the regime of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the human rights organization Human Rights Activists, at least 39 people (including four security personnel) have died during the 12 days of protests in Iran, and more than 2,260 individuals have been detained.

The President of Iran, Mahsud Pezeshkian, who promised during the 2024 election campaign to ease censorship and "liberate" the internet, is currently not fulfilling his promises. Major social networks (TikTok, Facebook, X) and Western media remain blocked, and the connection speed is intentionally slowed down, complicating the use of VPNs.

What is known about the situation in Iran

A wave of anti-government protests that began in late December was triggered by a deep economic crisis and a sharp fall in the rial. According to human rights organizations, protests have spread to more than 270 settlements in 27 of the country's 31 provinces.

Protesters control two cities in western Iran. Meanwhile, regime fighters have reached out for help from President Donald Trump.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recommended that Ukrainians leave the territory of Iran due to deteriorating security conditions in the country.

The ongoing protests in Iran reflect widespread public discontent with the economic situation and political repression. The situation remains tense, and further developments could significantly impact the country's internal stability, as well as its international relations.