Iran's internet blackout enters its second day as protests persist, with deadly anti-government demonstrations rocking the country for over 10 days. The protests, sparked by economic turmoil, have spread to over 100 cities, including Tehran, where authorities cut internet and telephone connections on Thursday. The bazaaris, a traditional force for change, have played a pivotal role in Iran's history, but their support for the Islamic Revolution of 1979 has since become more symbolic. The current protests, however, began when the central bank ended a program allowing importers to access cheaper US dollars, leading to shopkeepers increasing prices and some closing their doors. The situation has escalated, with US President Donald Trump threatening to attack Iran if security forces respond with force. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has urged Trump to focus on his own country and blamed the US for inciting the protests. The exiled opposition figure, Reza Pahlavi, has called for a two-day strike, addressing protesters in a video posted on X, urging workers in key sectors to begin a nationwide strike from Saturday. The internet blackout, now in its 36th hour, has been imposed amid ongoing unrest, and the protests began on December 28 due to rising inflation and anger at Iran's conservative rulers and violent security apparatus. The situation remains tense, with the latest updates expected throughout the day.
