NetBlocks says the apparent blackout follows ‘a series of escalating digital censorship measures targeting the protests’.
Iran is facing a nationwide internet blackout, online monitoring group NetBlocks has said, amid growing protests over the worsening economic crisis.
In a post on social media on Thursday, NetBlocks said the apparent blackout “follows a series of escalating digital censorship measures targeting protests across the country and hindering the public’s right to communicate at a critical moment”.
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Protesters have taken to the streets in cities across Iran since late December amid anger over the rising cost of living and the devaluation of the local currency.
At least 21 people, including security forces, have been killed since the protests began. According to a report by AFP news agency citing local media and official statements.
Iranian officials have offered mixed messages in response to the unrest, with President Massoud Pezeshkian calling for “extreme restraint” in dealing with the demonstrations.
But earlier this week, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said the rioters “must be put in their place”. The country’s top judge also accused protesters of “cooperation” with the United States and Israel.
Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ezei said there would be no leniency for those “creating insecurity”.
“If anyone comes to the streets to riot or create insecurity, or supports them, there is no excuse left for them,” he said. “The matter has become very clear and transparent. They are now acting in line with the enemies of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
UN chief Antonio Guterres this week stressed the need to stop protest-related deaths, his spokesman told reporters.
“He also calls on the authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly,” Stéphane Dujarric said during a briefing on Monday.
“All persons should be allowed to protest peacefully and express their grievances.”
more to come…
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