Iran has plunged into near-total isolation from the outside world after authorities imposed a nationwide internet and phone blackout amid escalating protests that have entered their 13th consecutive day. The unprecedented communications shutdown came as demonstrators across all 31 provinces took to the streets, shouting slogans against the clerical leadership and demanding economic relief and political change.
The unrest, which began in late December over soaring inflation, a collapsing currency and widening hardship, has grown into the most serious surge of anti-government demonstrations in years. Rights monitors say at least 44–45 people have been killed by security forces and more than 2,000 detained as state security units crack down on rallies and strikes.
