Protests across Iran have intensified, prompting the state-run television to acknowledge the unrest for the first time. The report, broadcast during the 8:00 AM news bulletin local time, mentioned casualties and alleged that “terrorist agents” linked to the United States and Israel were responsible for instigating violence and setting fires. This marks the first official statement regarding the demonstrations.
The state TV report claimed that the protests involved acts of violence resulting in casualties, though specific details were not provided. It further alleged that protesters had set fire to private cars, motorcycles, and public spaces, including metro stations, fire trucks, and buses.
Internet Shutdown
Reports indicate that the Iranian government has implemented widespread internet and international phone call restrictions. NetBlocks, an internet monitoring organization, stated that “live network data show Iran is now in the midst of a near-total internet shutdown.” The organization added that this action follows a series of digital censorship measures targeting protesters nationwide, hindering their ability to communicate during a critical period.
Trump’s Warning
Former U.S. President Donald Trump shared a video related to the protests, which initially erupted over economic conditions but have since evolved into demonstrations against the government. Trump posted the video, originally broadcast by an Israeli news channel, on his social media platform. He echoed the video’s claims, stating, “More than one million people protested: the second largest city in Iran is under the control of the protesters, and regime forces have left the city.” The video asserts that the number of protesters in Mashhad, Iran’s second-largest city, exceeded one million.
Trump has cautioned Iran against using violence against the demonstrators, emphasizing that Washington is prepared to respond forcefully if the protestors are mistreated. In an interview, he added that the number of protesters is significant and the level of public enthusiasm for regime change is remarkable.
DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing situation.
