Iran faces escalating protests, internet blackouts, and flight suspensions amid rising tensions and calls for monarchy restoration.
Protests in Iran are intensifying, leading to internet outages and the suspension of flights as tensions rise across the country. While much of the Western media has recently focused on developments in Venezuela and related maritime activities, protests that began in late December and have occasionally turned violent continue across Iran. The demonstrations have spread nationwide, with rural areas and the provinces of Ilam and Lorestan near the Iraqi border experiencing particularly intense protests. As of the morning of January 8, it is estimated that approximately 45 people have lost their lives due to security forces' interventions.
The protests are rooted in severe economic conditions faced by the public. However, a significant element distinguishing this year's demonstrations from previous waves has emerged: open support for the reinstatement of Crown Prince Reza Shah has been voiced during the protests, marking an unprecedented development on the streets of Iran. While past protests primarily targeted the country's religious leadership, this time pro-monarchy rhetoric has become more visible in the public sphere.
Reports indicate that security forces are struggling to fully control the protests, with concerns that harsh interventions could escalate the situation further, leading to a cautious approach. There are significant divisions within the ruling religious elite; some advocate for dialogue with the demonstrators, while the radical faction demands a harsh crackdown. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, conveyed a message to both sides, stating, 'We talk to the demonstrators, but there is no benefit in talking to the rebels. The rebels should be dealt with.'
Some reports suggest a growing sense of insecurity within the regime. The increase in visa applications to France and the addition of flights to Moscow strengthen claims that the ruling elite is beginning to evacuate their families abroad. The British Times newspaper, citing intelligence sources, suggested that Ali Khamenei's son and about 20 family members plan to move to Moscow with part of the approximately $95 billion liquid assets under Khamenei's personal control through his religious foundation, Setad.
U.S. President Donald Trump responded to a question on the matter by stating that the Supreme Leader is 'looking for a place to go.'
As of the evening of January 8, with the weekend approaching in Iran, there was a notable increase in protest activities, especially in Isfahan, Tabriz, Gorgan, and Mashhad. In Tehran, where the protests initially began at the Grand Bazaar, demonstrators blocked major arteries using vehicles. The Grand Bazaar, known for its conservative structure, is seen as a critical indicator of support for the regime; as often stated in Iranian politics, 'A power that loses support in the Grand Bazaar prepares for its end.'
Later that night, authorities implemented an unprecedented nationwide internet blackout. However, it is assessed that thousands of Iranians accessing the internet via Starlink will not find communication restrictions a serious obstacle, given their familiarity with coping with such challenges.
Following these developments, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Emirates announced the suspension of all flights to Iran.
Source: www.denizhaber.com
