Partial Restoration of International Phone Calls
The Iran internet shutdown protests entered a new phase as some residents managed to make international phone calls while internet access remained blocked. The Iranian internet shutdown protests followed a nationwide crackdown that cut Iran off from the outside world.
Internet Shutdown Continues Nationwide
Witnesses said Iran has yet to restore full internet connectivity, leaving citizens unable to access the outside world online. Authorities first cut off internet services and international calls on Thursday as protests intensified across several cities. The blackout has made it difficult to independently verify developments on the ground or assess the full scale of the unrest.
Protests and Rising International Pressure
The protests erupted amid growing public anger, prompting a harsh response from Iranian authorities. Activist groups have claimed that at least 646 people have died during the crackdown, although Iranian officials have not confirmed those figures. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said Iran now wants to negotiate with Washington after he warned of possible military action in response to the government’s handling of the protests.
Iran–US Backchannel Communication
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged ongoing communication with US envoy Steve Witkoff. Speaking to the Qatar-funded network Al Jazeera, Araghchi said the discussions continued both before and after the protests. However, he stressed that US proposals and threats remain incompatible with Iran’s position.
White House Responds to Tehran’s Messaging
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Iran’s public statements differ from the private messages the US administration has received. She noted that President Trump remains open to exploring diplomatic channels. At the same time, she emphasized that the president would not hesitate to use military options if he believes they are necessary.
Pro-Government Rallies Show Strength of State
Meanwhile, pro-government demonstrators filled the streets on Monday in a show of support for the Islamic Republic. The rallies followed days of protests that directly challenged the authority of Iran’s 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. State television broadcast images of large crowds chanting slogans against the United States and Israel.
Harsh Warnings From Iranian Authorities
Iranian state media also aired warnings from the country’s attorney general, who said anyone participating in protests would be treated as an “enemy of God.” Under Iranian law, such a charge can carry the death penalty. As limited communication slowly resumes, uncertainty remains over whether Iran will fully restore internet access or further tighten controls amid continuing unrest. Follow for more latest updates, FM News.
