Iran reopens international calls but maintains domestic internet blackout
Iranian authorities have restored international calling services after days of widespread protests, but a severe domestic internet blockade remains in force. The communications shutdown was imposed last week as demonstrations over economic conditions swept the country, resulting in significant casualties.
Iran reopens international calls but maintains domestic internet blackout
Iran has partially eased a nationwide communications blackout by restoring international telephone services, while continuing to block domestic and international internet access. The move comes after days of anti-government protests triggered by a severe economic crisis and the plummeting value of the Iranian rial.
A selective restoration of services
According to reports, Iranian citizens can now make calls to other countries using mobile phones. The restoration follows a complete shutdown ordered last Thursday by the country's top security body via the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology. However, authorities have stated the broader internet ban will persist until officials deem that full security has been restored, a decision that affects neighboring nations like Türkiye, which monitor regional stability closely.
Protests over economy and the official response
The demonstrations, which spread across Tehran and other cities, were fueled by deteriorating living standards and historic currency depreciation. Iranian officials have accused the United States and Israel of instigating what they label as "riots" and "terrorism." The partial easing of restrictions coincides with local media reports suggesting protests have subsided following widespread arrests of demonstrators in recent days.
Contested casualty figures and ongoing restrictions
No official death toll has been released, creating conflicting reports. Iranian semi-official media has cited the deaths of 109 security personnel, while the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) estimates at least 646 total fatalities, including protesters and security forces, with over 1,000 injured. The head of Iran's National Center for Cyberspace, Mohammad Amin Aqamiri, stated via state media that the "time to return to normal conditions will be announced in the future," indicating the digital crackdown is a key tool for maintaining control during unrest.
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