Iran is experiencing a significant escalation in unrest as anti-government protests enter their twelfth day. The situation has intensified with the announcement of a nationwide strike called by Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah of Iran, who was deposed during the 1979 Islamic Revolution. In a video posted on X, Pahlavi urged workers in critical sectors—including transportation, oil and gas, and energy—to commence a two-day strike starting on Saturday, which marks the beginning of the workweek in Iran.
Pahlavi encouraged demonstrators to take to the streets, displaying flags and national symbols to reclaim public spaces. He emphasized the importance of occupying city centers, asserting that recent protests delivered a strong message to the Iranian leadership. The extent of Pahlavi’s popularity within Iran remains uncertain; he was just 16 years old when the revolution ended his father’s 40-year reign.
The protests have been fueled by widespread dissatisfaction over rising inflation and discontent with the ruling authorities and their security measures. As these demonstrations continue, the Iranian government has implemented a major internet blackout, restricting access to communication and information.
According to the internet monitoring organization NetBlocks, the blackout has now extended beyond 36 hours. Authorities cut internet and telephone connections following mass protests in the capital, Tehran, on Thursday. NetBlocks reported, “It’s now 8:00 am in #Iran where the sun is rising after another night of protests met with repression; metrics show the nationwide internet blackout remains in place at 36 hours, severely limiting Iranians’ ability to check on the safety of friends and loved ones.”
This response from the government highlights the ongoing tension between the authorities and the public, as citizens demand accountability and reform. Protests began on December 28, 2023, and have gained momentum despite heavy-handed repression from security forces.
As the situation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring developments in Iran. The call for strikes and the ongoing protests signal a pivotal moment in the nation’s ongoing struggle for freedom and justice.
