Iran is taking steps to prevent anti-establishment protests, with checkpoints appearing across the streets of the capital, internet access restricted, and mass text warnings sent to residents. In Tehran, people have been telling the BBC about new security checkpoints around the city, where they say residents are stopped and searched. They have reported that some checkpoints are positioned under footbridges and inside road tunnels, following drone strikes on several checkpoints in the middle of roads.
A number of Iranian security personnel were reportedly killed in Israeli strikes on four checkpoints across Tehran, with unofficial counts suggesting around 10 members of the security forces were killed. Speaking to the BBC, a resident shared his strategy for passing through a checkpoint, indicating that expressing gratitude to the security personnel often helped him avoid complications.
Furthermore, the Iranian government has imposed a nationwide internet blackout, making communication difficult and hampering protest organization. While some residents are managing to use SpaceX's Starlink devices, selling secure internet connections has become a risky business, with arrests reported for those selling unfiltered internet access. Iranian authorities warn that using Starlink may lead to severe penalties.
In a persistent effort to stifle any signs of dissent, the Intelligence Unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has sent text messages warning citizens against protests, framing dissenters as enemies of the state. Amidst these developments, pro-establishment rallies are being organized to showcase support for the regime amidst fears of upheaval.
A number of Iranian security personnel were reportedly killed in Israeli strikes on four checkpoints across Tehran, with unofficial counts suggesting around 10 members of the security forces were killed. Speaking to the BBC, a resident shared his strategy for passing through a checkpoint, indicating that expressing gratitude to the security personnel often helped him avoid complications.
Furthermore, the Iranian government has imposed a nationwide internet blackout, making communication difficult and hampering protest organization. While some residents are managing to use SpaceX's Starlink devices, selling secure internet connections has become a risky business, with arrests reported for those selling unfiltered internet access. Iranian authorities warn that using Starlink may lead to severe penalties.
In a persistent effort to stifle any signs of dissent, the Intelligence Unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has sent text messages warning citizens against protests, framing dissenters as enemies of the state. Amidst these developments, pro-establishment rallies are being organized to showcase support for the regime amidst fears of upheaval.
