According to preliminary data, internet access remains only for representatives of the authorities and security forces, notes dpa.At the same time, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated threats against the Iranian leadership in an interview with Salem News Channel, emphasizing that his administration is closely monitoring the situation. "I have made it clear to them that we will act tough if they start killing people, which they often do during their riots," Trump noted, adding that the citizens of Iran are "brave people."
It is worth reminding that mass protests in Iran began on December 28, when shop owners at the main city bazaar in Tehran closed their stores in protest against hyperinflation and sharp price fluctuations.
On December 29, the exchange rate of the Iranian rial fell to a new record, amounting to approximately 0.002 som, and according to World Bank data, food inflation in the country reached 64.2% in October, making Iran one of the leaders in this indicator, second only to South Sudan.
On the day of the internet shutdown, January 8, protesters blocked one of Tehran's main highways - Ayatollah Kashani Boulevard. Mass protests have also been reported in cities such as Mashhad and Kermanshah. Security forces are using tear gas against demonstrators, according to eyewitness reports relayed by dpa.
According to the Norwegian organization Iran Human Rights, at least 45 protesters have died since the beginning of the protests, including eight minors. Earlier, Iranian authorities and media reported 21 fatalities, including security personnel.
Photo on the main page: dw.com.
