Iran has been plunged into a fresh wave of unrest and a nationwide communications blackout after a public call to protest by the country's exiled crown prince. The demonstrations, which began on Wednesday, represent a significant escalation of dissent and a direct challenge to the Islamic Republic's authority.
Protests Erupt Following Royal Appeal
The catalyst for the latest turmoil was a public appeal from Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran's last shah who fled before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. His call for mass demonstrations prompted an immediate response. On the night of his address, over 100,000 people took to the streets across Iran, with residents in the capital, Tehran, shouting from their homes and lighting fires in protest.
This surge of activity marks the first major test of Prince Reza Pahlavi's influence, whom many refer to as 'Reza Shah II'. Notably, chants in support of the former monarchy were heard, an act that was historically punishable by death but now underscores the depth of public anger.
Communications Cut and Rising Death Toll
Authorities moved swiftly to quell the spread of information, with internet access and telephone lines cut across Iran shortly after the protests began. The blackout has severely hampered communication and reporting from within the country.
The protests have turned increasingly violent. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 41 people have been killed and more than 2,270 detained in the unrest. Iranian state media reported several attacks on security forces, including a police colonel fatally stabbed outside Tehran and two Revolutionary Guard members killed in Kermanshah.
Economic Grievances Fuel Unrest
The protests, which continued through Thursday, are rooted in Iran's severe economic crisis, described as the worst since the 1979 revolution. In a bid to address public anger, the government announced a controversial plan to issue coupons worth approximately £5 per month to most of its 90 million citizens.
Government spokesperson Fatameh Mohajerani stated the measure aimed to preserve household purchasing power and ensure food security. Labour minister Ahmad Maydari confirmed the aid would come as coupons for basic goods, not cash, to limit inflation. However, this token gesture has done little to appease protesters, with more markets and bazaars shutting down in solidarity with the demonstrations.
The situation remains volatile, with the exiled prince's appeal revealing a potent undercurrent of opposition and the government's security response highlighting its determination to maintain control at any cost.
