Iran Maintains Internet Blackout Amid Protests, Fires Telecom CEO Over Compliance

Iran has maintained a near-total internet blackout since January 8 amid widespread anti-government protests triggered by economic hardships. The shutdown aimed to restrict information flow during a violent crackdown that rights groups say has killed thousands, with estimates ranging from over 3,400 to more than 5,000 deaths. Authorities have begun a limited, heavily filtered restoration of some services, while firing the CEO of Irancell, the second-largest telecom firm, for not fully complying with internet restrictions. Officials say internet access will be restored gradually when security conditions permit.