Iran: Internet service partially restored November 21 /update 5

Event

Internet service has been partially restored in some provinces as of Thursday, November 21, days after authorities implemented a nationwide shutdown amid violent opposition protests. According to local media outlets, service has resumed in Hormozgan, Kermanshah, Arak, Mashhad, Qom, Tabriz, Hamadan, and Bushehr provinces, as well as parts of Tehran. Officials with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have said that calm has been restored in the country after days of unrest sparked by fuel price hikes left more than 100 people dead, a figure that officials have disputed. 

A heightened security presence, clashes between demonstrators and security forces, and continued internet disruptions are possible throughout Iran over the coming days. Disruptions to transportation and business are to be anticipated in areas affected by demonstrations.

Context

On November 14, the Iranian government announced a fuel price hike that sparked nationwide protests on November 15. Clashes between protesters and security forces have left at least 106 people dead as of November 21, as security forces have reportedly fired live ammunition, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse demonstrators. Authorities began limiting access to the internet on November 16. Security forces have arrested as many as 1000 people, and protests have been recorded in more than 50 cities.

Advice

Individuals in Iran are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, budget extra time to reach their destinations if traveling through areas affected by demonstrations, prepare for associated disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.