Iran Faces Ongoing Protests and Internet Blackout as Calls for Strike Intensify

Protests across Iran have entered their second week, prompting significant unrest and a nationwide internet blackout. Demonstrators are voicing their discontent over rising inflation and the authoritarian rule of the government. In response to these ongoing protests, Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah, has called for a two-day nationwide strike targeting key economic sectors.

In a video posted on social media platform X, Pahlavi urged workers in essential industries, particularly those involved in transportation, oil, gas, and energy, to participate in the strike starting Saturday, which marks the beginning of the workweek in Iran. He emphasized the importance of public participation, encouraging citizens to take to the streets with national symbols to reclaim public spaces. “The goal is to prepare to seize city centers and hold them,” he stated, reflecting on the recent protests that he believes conveyed a strong message to the Iranian leadership.

As protests spread, the Iranian government has imposed a severe internet blackout. According to monitoring organization NetBlocks, the blackout has now lasted over 36 hours, severely restricting communication across the country. The shutdown began on Thursday after mass demonstrations erupted in the capital, Tehran. NetBlocks reported on their Telegram channel that the blackout has hindered the ability of Iranians to connect with friends and family amid the turmoil.

The protests, which began on December 28, 2023, have been fueled by growing frustration over economic issues, including significant inflation. Citizens are increasingly expressing their anger towards the conservative regime and its aggressive security forces. This unrest follows a pattern seen in previous protests, where dissatisfaction with the government has sparked widespread demonstrations.

While Pahlavi’s influence within Iran remains uncertain, his call for action resonates with some segments of the population. The exiled figure was only 16 years old when the 1979 Islamic Revolution ended his father’s 40-year reign. As the son of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, he carries a legacy that some Iranians view with nostalgia, although others may see it as a reminder of a past that has since transformed.

As the situation continues to evolve, the Iranian government faces increasing pressure both domestically and internationally. The outcome of the protests and the effectiveness of the strike called by Pahlavi may significantly impact the political landscape in Iran. With citizens determined to voice their grievances, the coming days will be pivotal in determining the trajectory of the current unrest.