Protests continue in Iran despite nationwide internet shutdown

Protests continued across Iran on Friday as people stayed on the streets despite a nationwide internet blackout imposed by the authorities. 

The demonstrations have entered their 13th day and mark the largest wave of unrest in the country in more than three years.

The movement began over rising living costs but has since turned into wider calls against the clerical system that has ruled Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. 

Demonstrations were reported in Tehran as well as in cities such as Mashhad, Tabriz and the holy city of Qom.

In Tehran’s Sadatabad area, residents were seen banging pots and chanting anti-government slogans, including “death to Khamenei,” referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. 

Videos verified online also showed cars honking in support of the protesters.

Internet monitoring group NetBlocks said authorities have enforced a nationwide internet shutdown for more than 24 hours, saying the move was meant to hide violence against protesters. 

Amnesty International said the blackout was being used to cover up serious human rights abuses.

Norway-based group Iran Human Rights said at least 51 protesters, including nine children, have been killed by security forces, with hundreds more injured. 

This figure is higher than earlier reports.

In his first public comments since the protests began, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called the demonstrators “vandals” and “saboteurs” in a speech aired on state television. 

He said the government would not retreat in the face of unrest.

US President Donald Trump said Iran’s leaders appeared to be “in big trouble” and warned against using force on protesters. 

Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s former shah, called for international support for the demonstrations.

Iranian officials issued strong warnings. Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said those involved in unrest would face maximum punishment. 

The Revolutionary Guards said protecting the Islamic Republic was their “red line.”

Leaders of France, the UK and Germany condemned the killing of protesters and urged Iranian authorities to show restraint. 

At the same time, Iranian state television broadcast images of pro-government rallies in several cities.

Human rights groups say security forces have used live ammunition, tear gas, metal pellets and beatings against mostly peaceful protesters since the unrest began in late December.