NEW DELHI: Iran has imposed a near-total nationwide internet blackout as anti-government protests enter their 13th day and spread across all 31 provinces.

Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reports that connectivity dropped sharply on the evening of January 8 and remained severely restricted into the morning of January 9, with mobile phone services also heavily disrupted. Rights groups say at least 45 protesters have been killed since the unrest began on December 28 — including children — and more than 2,200 people have been arrested.

The blackout followed mass demonstrations in Tehran and other major cities after exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi called for coordinated protests and rooftop chanting. Witnesses report large crowds blocking roads, setting fires, and chanting slogans against the government.

Security forces responded with live ammunition and tear gas. Reports also allege that hospitals were raided to detain wounded demonstrators, prompting international condemnation. Authorities have further imposed airspace restrictions, with flights reportedly suspended at several airports, including Tabriz.