Hackers target Iran state TV with exiled crown prince’s message to forces

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Associated PressJanuary 19, 2026 at 08:12 AM

AI Summary

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Hackers disrupted Iranian state television broadcasts on Sunday night, replacing programming with footage supporting exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi and urging security forces to refrain from violence against protesters. The hacking targeted multiple channels of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, the state broadcaster. This disruption follows widespread protests in Iran and a government crackdown that has reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths. Tensions between the U.S. and Iran remain high, with the U.S. President issuing warnings against further violence. The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and accompanying destroyers have entered the Strait of Malacca, potentially heading towards the Middle East amid the ongoing unrest.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Singapore 30% Strait of Malacca 40% USS Abraham Lincoln ×240% Donald Trump 50% United States 60% Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting 70% Reza Pahlavi 80% Iran ×490%

Keywords

iran 100% hacking 90% state television 80% protests 70% crackdown 70% exiled crown prince 60% internet shutdown 50% security forces 50% us 40% military deployment 40%