Following intense unrest in Iran, the security forces have started to gradually lift the strict communication blackouts. Reports indicate that the use of SMS services has been allowed again nationwide after they were interrupted during the protests. The authorities justified this step by saying that the security situation is increasingly under control. Nevertheless, access to the international internet remains severely restricted in large parts of the country.
In the capital Tehran as well as in numerous provinces, expressions of discontent against the 'Mullah-Regime' continue. Reports suggest that cries such as 'Death to the Dictator' echoed through the streets again in various neighborhoods—a slogan directly aimed at the country's supreme religious leader. The protests, which were originally triggered by economic hardship and rising prices, have developed into a broad political movement demanding fundamental reforms or the overthrow of the system.
The protest also continues on the international stage. In Vienna, many people gathered on the 'Stephansplatz' to express their solidarity with the Iranian population. The demonstrators called for an end to the oppression and highlighted the violent crackdown on protests in Iran. Human rights organizations report a high number of arrests and fatalities since the unrest began at the end of December.
