As protests rage, Iran pulls the plug on contact with the world [View all]
Source: Associated Press
Thursday, Irans theocracy pulled the plug and disconnected the Islamic Republics 85 million people from the rest of the world.
Following a playbook used both in demonstrations and in war, Iran severed the internet connections and telephone lines that connect its people to the vast diaspora in the United States, Europe and elsewhere. Until now, even while facing strict sanctions over the countrys nuclear program, Iranians still could access mobile phone apps and even websites blocked by the theocracy, using virtual private networks to circumvent restrictions.
Thursdays decision sharply limits people from sharing images and witness accounts of the nationwide protests over Irans ailing economy that have grown to pose the biggest challenge to the government in years. It also could provide cover for a violent crackdown after the Trump administration warned Irans government about consequences for further deaths among demonstrators.
Read more: https://apnews.com/article/iran-protests-economy-starlink-internet-disconnect-8d944601e7bfeae6753ec0645f5a7139