Conflicts

Residents in Iran Reconnect Internationally Amid Security Crackdown and Protests

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Jan 13, 2026

THE BARE STORY

Residents in Iran were able to place international phone calls on Tuesday for the first time since authorities restricted communications during nationwide anti-government protests. While voice calls connected to numbers abroad, witnesses reported that text messaging remained disabled and internet access was limited to government-approved domestic websites.

Witnesses in Tehran described a heavy security presence in the capital, including riot police and plainclothes officers. Residents observed damage to some government buildings and banks, noting that shopkeepers in some areas were ordered to reopen despite sparse crowds. In a warning to demonstrators, Iran’s attorney general stated that protesters would be considered an "enemy of God," a charge that can carry the death penalty. Conversely, state media aired footage on Monday showing tens of thousands of people participating in pro-government rallies.

Activist groups have alleged that hundreds of people, including both protesters and security forces, have been killed during the unrest. The exact death toll remains unverified due to the ongoing information blackout.

Tensions between Tehran and Washington have escalated alongside the internal unrest. On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced immediate 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that communications with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff are ongoing but described the U.S. proposals as incompatible with Tehran's position. While a White House spokesperson emphasized that diplomacy is the primary option, officials indicated the administration is prepared to use military force if necessary.

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• Continued restrictions on information and civil liberties Witnesses report that despite the restoration of voice calls, text messaging remains disabled and internet access is limited strictly to government-approved domestic websites. This digital restriction is accompanied by a heavy security crackdown in Tehran, where residents describe a pervasive presence of riot police.

• Allegations of lethal violence and civil disobedience Activist groups have alleged that hundreds of people, including protesters and security forces, have been killed, though the information blackout prevents independent verification of the death toll. Additionally, witnesses noted that crowds remained sparse in some areas, suggesting public hesitation even after shopkeepers were ordered to reopen.

• Escalation of international economic and military threats Tensions have intensified following the U.S. President's implementation of immediate 25% tariffs on nations that trade with Iran. While the White House has stated that diplomacy is the primary path, officials have also signaled a readiness to utilize military force if the situation necessitates it.

How it may affect me

As a U.S. reader:

• You can now place international voice calls to contacts in Iran, though communication remains difficult as text messaging is disabled and internet access is restricted to domestic websites.

• You may experience economic ripple effects or higher prices following the President's announcement of immediate 25% tariffs on any nations that continue doing business with Iran.

• You face a heightened possibility of U.S. military involvement abroad, as officials indicated the administration is prepared to use force if necessary while diplomacy remains the primary option.

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