Iran's Internet Blackout Amidst Supreme Leader's Warning to Protesters

Nationwide Internet Blackout

• 🌍 Iran experienced a nationwide internet blackout starting Thursday, as reported by internet monitoring group Netblocks.
• 🚫 This blackout aims to curb expanding protests and cut off the country from the outside world, affecting phone calls and flights.

Supreme Leader's Accusations

• 🗣️ Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused protesters of acting on behalf of US President Donald Trump.
• ⚠️ Khamenei warned that Tehran would not tolerate individuals acting as "mercenaries for foreigners."

Protests and Economic Grievances

• 📈 Anti-government protests, the biggest in three years, were triggered by frustration with the country's economy and rampant inflation.
• 🛒 Protests began in Tehran's Grand Bazaar by shopkeepers condemning the currency's freefall.
• 💰 In response to unrest, Tehran implemented a subsidy reform, providing Iranians with approximately $7 a month for basic goods.

Government Response to Unrest

• ⚖️ Iran's top judge promised to confront what he called "rioters," accusing them of operating in line with the country's enemies.
• ✊ Videos showed hundreds marching in Tehran's streets, with protesters chanting slogans against the clerical rulers and tearing an Iranian flag.