Iran protest sees massive escalation, nationwide internet cut as exiled prince's war cry

By Admin

09 Jan, 2026

Unrest intensifies amid economic distress
Iran has witnessed one of the most intense waves of anti-government protests in recent years, as nationwide demonstrations escalated sharply amid a deepening economic crisis. The unrest, which began on December 28, 2025, with a shutdown of the Tehran Bazaar, has rapidly expanded into a countrywide movement against the clerical leadership. The protests have been largely driven by Iran’s faltering economy, soaring inflation, and the continuous fall of the rial, which has severely affected everyday life for ordinary citizens.

Biggest protests in two weeks
On Thursday, Iran reportedly saw its largest anti-government demonstrations in the past two weeks, marking a critical point in the standoff between the public and the ruling establishment. According to reports, protesters poured into streets across major cities, voicing anger over economic hardship and governance failures. The demonstrations signal growing frustration that has moved beyond isolated gatherings to sustained nationwide resistance.

Rising death toll and crackdown
The scale of the unrest has been accompanied by a sharp rise in casualties. As per the Human Rights Activist News Agency (Human Rights Activist News Agency), at least 42 people were killed between December 28, 2025, and January 8, 2026. The fatalities reportedly include 29 protesting civilians, eight security personnel, and five children and adolescents under the age of 18. Separately, Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights stated that 13 protesters were killed on Wednesday alone, underscoring the accelerating violence.

Massive rallies in Tehran and beyond
Visuals circulating on social media showed massive rallies in Tehran, with thousands gathering on Ayatollah Kashani Boulevard in the northwest of the city, according to AFP. Demonstrations were also reported in Abadan, while posts on X claimed that protests in Tehran and Mashhad saw security personnel being chased and government buildings set on fire. These claims, however, could not be independently verified. The images nonetheless reflect the scale and intensity of public anger spilling onto the streets.

Protests spread to 46 cities across 21 provinces
According to HRANA, protests on Thursday were reported in at least 46 cities spanning 21 provinces. Market shutdowns were also observed in Kurdish regions, with dozens of cities in Kurdistan, West Azerbaijan, Kermanshah, and Ilam provinces joining strikes. Authorities have responded with a sweeping crackdown, arresting at least 60 more people on Thursday alone. Since December 28, more than 2,277 individuals have reportedly been detained, including at least 166 minors and 48 university students. The report further alleged that state media has broadcast at least 45 cases of forced confessions since the protests began.

Nationwide internet blackout
As the protests escalated, Iran imposed a near-total internet shutdown. Online watchdog NetBlocks said live metrics showed a nationwide internet blackout, following a series of escalating digital censorship measures. The shutdown has severely restricted communication, limiting the flow of information at a critical moment and drawing international concern over digital rights and freedom of expression.

Exiled prince’s call and international reaction
The internet blockade drew sharp condemnation from exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi, who accused the Iranian government of gagging communication lines and attempting to jam satellite signals. He urged European leaders to support the Iranian people and hold the regime accountable, calling on them to follow the stance taken by Donald Trump. Trump, meanwhile, issued a stern warning to Iran, threatening severe action if authorities “start killing people” and cautioning that Washington would “hit them very hard” in response.

A critical moment for Iran
With protests spreading rapidly, casualties mounting, and communication lines cut, Iran appears to be at a critical juncture. The coming days will be decisive in determining whether the unrest leads to meaningful change or faces further repression, as the standoff between the people and the state continues to intensify.