Tehran says protests subsiding as internet blackout drags on
Iranian authorities say a recent wave of nationwide protests has largely subsided, but a government-enforced internet shutdown and tight security measures remain in place.
A massive security presence and an internet blackout continue across Iran five days after the government introduced controversial cuts to gasoline subsidies. The austerity plan fueled worries about inflation and higher gasoline prices, and triggered nationwide protests that soon turned into large anti-government demonstrations.
The rallies have seen intense confrontations between security forces and Iranians, leaving behind government buildings ablaze and massive damage to public property. Numerous reports state that security forces have fired live ammunition, leading to an unspecified number of deaths among protesters. The government denies responsibility for any deaths, saying several members of its forces have been killed in the scuffles.
