Iran has shut down internet services and disabled phone lines as protests over economic hardship spread across the country.
The internet blackout started on Thursday night. While officials did not give a clear reason, reports suggest the move was meant to control the growing protests. Iran has used internet shutdowns in the past during unrest.
A human rights group, Iran Human Rights, said at least 45 protesters, including children, have been killed since the demonstrations began in late December. Many others have been injured or arrested.
Shops were closed in several cities after Kurdish political groups called for a strike. Videos showed empty streets and locked shops in areas like Kermanshah, Ilam, and Lorestan.
Protests were reported in all 31 provinces. In some cities, protesters pulled down a statue of Qassem Suleimani, a former military commander. Videos online showed crowds cheering as the statue fell.
Demonstrations also continued in Tehran and other cities, with people openly showing support. Rights groups say the government’s response is becoming more violent each day.
Authorities confirmed that one police officer died while trying to control the unrest near Tehran.
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