Cyprus Times

Iran Shuts Down Internet Amidst Nationwide Protests

Published January 9, 2026, 19:06
Iran Shuts Down Internet Amidst Nationwide Protests

Iran has largely cut itself off from the outside world on Friday, as authorities shut down the internet to curb growing unrest, with videos showing buildings ablaze in anti-government protests raging across the country. The protests, initially sparked by economic grievances, have escalated into direct calls for regime change, with slogans strongly criticizing the leadership. The situation is worsening with reports of dozens of protesters and police officers killed, as well as images of destruction to public and private infrastructure. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has taken a hard line against the protesters, accusing them of acting on behalf of foreign powers and vowing not to yield. Simultaneously, a prosecutor warned of the possibility of death sentences for participants in the demonstrations. This development underscores the criticality of the situation and the regime's determination to maintain power. The internet shutdown has severely restricted the flow of information from Iran to the outside world, making it difficult to verify reports and assess the true extent of the protests. Additionally, there have been reports of problems with telephone communications and flight cancellations, demonstrating the degree of the country's isolation. The exiled son of the late Shah of Iran has called on Donald Trump to intervene. The protests represent the biggest internal challenge to Iran's clerical leaders in years, fueled by economic hardship and growing public discontent. The situation remains unstable, and the potential for further escalation is real.