Tehran, Jan 09 (V7N)- Iran has been gripped by widespread anti-government protests for 12 consecutive days amid a deepening economic crisis, prompting authorities to completely shut down internet services across the country.

The Qatar-based media outlet Al Jazeera, citing online monitoring organization NetBlocks, reported that nationwide internet connectivity was disrupted, with telecommunications services also affected in several regions.

According to NetBlocks, internet access in the capital Tehran was cut off on Thursday night local time as large-scale demonstrations intensified. With the shutdown, Iran has effectively been isolated from the outside world—an action that analysts warn could further inflame public anger against the administration led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Meanwhile, violent clashes continued as the protest movement entered its 12th day on Thursday. Several human rights organizations have reported that at least 45 people have been killed since the unrest began in late December.

The protests, sparked by soaring prices, unemployment, and worsening living conditions, have now spread to approximately 350 locations across all 31 provinces of the country, highlighting the scale and intensity of the nationwide unrest.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the internet blackout or the reported casualties.

END/SMA/AJ