Iran in turmoil: Top updates as internet blackouts and protests escalate

Iran protests escalate into regime challenge

Iran is once again at a historic breaking point. What began as anger over a collapsing economy has erupted into one of the most widespread and politically charged uprisings the Islamic Republic has faced in years — marked by burning state buildings, chants for regime change, a nationwide internet blackout, and a looming address by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as pressure mounts at home and abroad. Here are top developments.

Nationwide protests intensify

Anti-government demonstrations have entered their second week, spreading to more than 100 cities across Iran, from Tehran and Mashhad to Isfahan, Bandar Abbas, Ilam and Tabriz, cutting across ethnic, regional and social lines.

State symbols targeted

Protesters set fire to government buildings, including a facility of Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) in Isfahan, underscoring growing defiance against state authority and propaganda institutions.

Internet and communications blackout

Authorities imposed a near-total nationwide internet and phone shutdown, cutting off over 85 million people. NetBlocks and Cloudflare attributed the outage to government interference, a tactic often preceding harsher crackdowns.

Death toll and arrests rise

Human rights groups report 36–45 protesters killed, including children, with more than 2,000 detained. Security forces have used tear gas, live ammunition and mass arrests to suppress crowds.

Economic collapse fuels anger

The protests were triggered by a plunging rial, 40% inflation, fuel price hikes, soaring food costs and the removal of preferential exchange rates, making basic goods and medicine unaffordable for millions.

From economic protest to regime challenge

Demonstrations that began with bazaar merchants and students have evolved into open calls for the end of the Islamic Republic, with chants such as “Death to the dictator” and “Death to Khamenei.”

Reza Pahlavi’s call galvanises crowds

Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi urged Iranians to protest nightly. Chants of “This is the last battle, Pahlavi will return” echoed across Tehran before communications were cut.

Security forces and state response

Iran claims hundreds of police and Basij personnel have been injured, while at least five security personnel have reportedly been killed. State media has downplayed unrest, highlighting food subsidies instead.

International pressure grows

US President Donald Trump warned Iran of retaliation if security forces continue killing protesters, raising fears of wider geopolitical fallout.

Khamenei to address the nation

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is expected to deliver a televised speech on what state media calls “terrorist actions”, as authorities brace for further escalation.