Iranian authorities have escalated measures to suppress the dissemination of information regarding nationwide unrest. Reports indicate that security forces in Tehran are conducting door-to-door searches, seizing satellite dishes and CCTV footage to identify and prevent the spread of protest-related content.
Undercover agents from the Revolutionary Guard have reportedly disguised themselves as utility workers to enter homes and confiscate satellite equipment, as reported by Iran International. This crackdown on satellites follows a countrywide telecommunication shutdown that started on January 8, leaving satellite-enabled devices as the sole means of communication amidst over 100 hours of internet blackout.
According to internet monitoring group NetBlocks, the blackout has persisted for 100 hours as of Monday evening, causing heightened fear and anxiety among Iranians inside and outside the country. Human Rights Watch Executive Director Philippe Bolopion criticized Iran for implementing the blackout to conceal reports of security forces allegedly carrying out large-scale killings of protesters.
Bolopion emphasized the urgent need for international intervention, urging the UN Security Council and the Human Rights Council to address the situation and hold Iranian leadership accountable. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the violence in Iran and demanded an immediate end to the repression of peaceful demonstrators.
In response to escalating violence and protests, the US Virtual Embassy in Iran advised American citizens to leave the country promptly using their own arrangements. Land borders to neighboring countries remain accessible, although entry to certain regions is restricted due to ongoing unrest.
US President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation, with military strikes, cyber operations, and psychological support for protesters being considered as potential actions. CBS reports that these operations may be conducted in conjunction with traditional military force or as standalone measures, with diplomatic solutions still under consideration.
