Iran plunged into internet blackout as protests over economy spread nationwide

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by William Christou in BeirutJanuary 8, 2026 at 08:42 PM

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Nationwide protests in Iran over economic conditions led to a complete internet blackout on Thursday night. The demonstrations, which have spread to all 31 provinces, are the largest in three years. Security forces have reportedly killed at least 45 protesters, including children, since the protests began in late December, according to Iran Human Rights (IHR). Shopkeepers participated in a general strike, and protesters have taken actions such as toppling a statue of Qassem Suleimani. While official sources report at least 21 deaths, including security forces, IHR claims hundreds have been wounded and over 2,000 arrested. The Iranian president has called for restraint in handling the demonstrations.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Kermanshah 40% Norway 40% Agence France-Presse 40% Masoud Pezeshkian ×250% Fars province ×250% Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam 50% Islamic Revolutionary Guards Quds Force (IRGC) ×265% Qassem Suleimani ×270% NetBlocks ×270% Iran Human Rights (IHR) ×375% Iran ×695%

Keywords

protests 100% internet blackout 90% economic conditions 70% crackdown 70% political unrest 60% security forces 60% human rights 50% iranian leadership 50% general strike 50%