Iranian officials are ramping up efforts to suppress the spread of information regarding nationwide unrest. Reports indicate that security forces in Tehran are conducting door-to-door searches, confiscating satellite dishes and CCTV recordings to identify protesters and halt the dissemination of information. Undercover agents from the Revolutionary Guard are reportedly posing as water and electricity personnel to gain access to homes and seize satellite equipment.
This crackdown on satellite devices follows a telecommunications shutdown that commenced on January 8, leading to a nationwide internet blackout lasting over 100 hours. The digital blackout, confirmed by NetBlocks, has instilled fear and anxiety among Iranians, both within the country and abroad.
Human Rights Watch Executive Director Philippe Bolopion has criticized Iran for implementing the blackout to conceal alleged large-scale killings of protesters by security forces. Bolopion urged the UN Security Council and the Human Rights Council to address the situation promptly and hold Iran accountable for its actions.
The UK Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has condemned the violence in Iran and emphasized the need for the Iranian government to cease brutality, respect fundamental rights, and ensure the safety of British nationals. Simultaneously, the US Virtual Embassy Iran has advised American citizens to leave the country immediately amid escalating violence and protests.
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation, with potential actions including military strikes, cyber operations, and psychological measures to support protesters. CBS reports that these measures could be deployed individually or in combination, emphasizing that diplomatic options are still being considered.