Communication conditions in Iran have begun to show signs of easing after reports emerged that internet access was temporarily restored in limited time slots before being cut off again, amid scrutiny from human rights organizations.
The internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported on Sunday (18 Jan) that internet usage in Iran temporarily increased after the government allowed access to certain services such as Google and messaging apps, though under strict filtering, before signals were restricted once more later.
Internet shutdowns began on 8 January amid criticism from human rights organizations, which described the move as a state effort to block information and conceal security forces' use of violence against protesters.
Protests in Iran erupted in late December over economic grievances, cost of living, and governance, escalating into one of the largest demonstrations in years, then gradually subsiding following a severe crackdown described by rights groups as a massacre.
Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) stated it has verified at least 3,428 protester deaths based on hospital data, witness accounts, and independent sources inside the country, while warning the actual number could be significantly higher.
Other estimates suggest the death toll could exceed 5,000 and potentially reach 20,000; however, the ongoing internet blackout has hindered independent verification of these figures.
Opposition broadcaster Iran International cited high-level government and security sources claiming at least 12,000 deaths, a figure rejected by Iran's judiciary.
Political tensions escalated after former U.S. President Donald Trump stated it was time for new leadership in Iran and criticized Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as responsible for allowing the killing of citizens.
Following these remarks, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that any attack or threat against the Supreme Leader equates to a declaration of war against the Iranian people.
Although Iranian authorities confirmed that order has returned to the streets and schools have reopened, AFP reporters observed security forces with armored vehicles and motorcycles patrolling Tehran.
Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian said he had proposed to the National Security Council the prompt removal of internet restrictions, with some citizens reporting renewed ability to use WhatsApp for international calls and messaging in recent days.
Iran's judiciary emphasized that those involved in inciting violence may be prosecuted for waging war against God, a charge punishable by death, raising serious concerns internationally.
Analysts suggest that the threat of the death penalty is a key tool used by the government to intimidate and suppress protests amid ongoing international pressure closely monitoring Iran's situation.
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