Protests in Iran have entered a critical phase as demonstrators continue to voice their dissatisfaction with the government. In response to this ongoing unrest, Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah of Iran, has called for a two-day nationwide strike beginning on Saturday, December 30, 2023. His appeal, made via a video posted on social media platform X, urges workers in key sectors—including transportation, oil and gas, and energy—to join the strike as part of a broader effort to challenge the current regime.
Pahlavi’s video address coincides with a government-imposed internet blackout that has now lasted over 36 hours. Authorities initiated the blackout following widespread protests that erupted in the capital, Tehran, and other cities. Speaking to the protesters, Pahlavi encouraged them to take to the streets with national symbols and reclaim public spaces. He stated, “The goal is to prepare to seize city centers and hold them,” reflecting the determination of many to send a strong message to Iran’s leadership.
The unrest in Iran, which has persisted for over ten days, has been fueled by growing frustration over rising inflation and dissatisfaction with the conservative ruling class. Mass demonstrations began on December 28, 2023, and have since escalated, challenging the government’s authority. While it remains unclear how popular Pahlavi is within Iran, his call for action highlights the ongoing demand for change.
As the protests continue, watchdog organization NetBlocks reports that the internet blackout has severely hampered communication among Iranians. At 08:00 am local time on Saturday, the organization confirmed that the blackout was still in effect, complicating efforts for individuals to check on the safety of family and friends amid the turmoil. “Metrics show the nationwide internet blackout remains in place at 36 hours,” NetBlocks noted in a statement on its Telegram channel.
Pahlavi, who was only 16 years old when the 1979 Islamic Revolution ended his father’s 40-year reign, has since lived in exile. As the eldest son of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, he was poised to inherit a rich legacy, but the revolution drastically altered the political landscape of Iran. His recent call for a strike signifies not only a challenge to the current government but also a rallying point for those yearning for change.
The next few days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of these protests and the government’s response. As Iranians continue to demand their voices be heard, the world watches closely to see how this situation unfolds.
