Iran: Authorities severely restrict internet access across country as of Sept. 22 as nationwide demonstrations continue /update 2

Event

Iranian authorities have severely restricted internet access across the country as of Sept. 22 amid nationwide anti-government protest activity. This latest bout of civil unrest began in response to the death of a 22-year-old woman, Mahsa Amini, in police custody Sept. 16. Amini's death has become a rallying cry for millions of Iranians who are demanding that authorities abolish the Guardian Patrol, also known as the fashion or morality police. The demonstrations have spread to multiple cities in recent days, including Tehran, Isfahan, Mashhad, and Shiraz, with the largest and most violent taking place in Kurdistan Province, where Amini was from. At least eight people have been killed and 450 others wounded amid the demonstrations, and hundreds of protesters have been detained.

The demonstrations, which will likely persist through at least early October, will probably grow in scale and intensity unless authorities hold to account members of the morality police who are responsible for Amini's death. Transport disruptions are likely near any demonstrations that materialize. Civil society associations, labor organizations, and political groups could potentially enhance the impact of protests by staging labor strikes.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture in major cities for the duration of the protests. Security forces may respond forcefully - including using tear gas, water cannon, and baton charges - to any instances of civil unrest, especially if participants are overly disruptive or fail to heed orders to disperse. Officials may extend internet service restrictions in some areas of the country with high levels of protest activity over the coming days to prevent activists from mobilizing.

Context

Amini died Sept. 16 after she was detained by Iran's morality police for allegedly violating the country's dress code and hijab rules Sept. 13. Authorities have claimed that Amini had a stroke and heart attack while in detention, cautioning that it could take at least three weeks to definitively determine her cause of death. Her family, however, claims that she was healthy before her arrest and did not suffer from any preexisting medical conditions.

Advice

Avoid all large gatherings and areas where security forces have deployed. Plan for ground transport disruptions and allow extra time to reach destinations in major cities, especially near likely protest locations such as public squares and government buildings. Heed the instructions of security personnel. If violence breaks out nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building.