Iran protests: How the internet blackout opened the door to a deadly crackdown

Protests in Iran, initially sparked by economic woes, have escalated into calls for the fall of the establishment. Following a nationwide internet shutdown on January 8th, the government's response intensified into a deadly crackdown. Human rights groups and eyewitnesses report that security forces began using live ammunition on protesters after the blackout was implemented. This shift in tactics marks a significant escalation from the initial use of shotgun pellets to control crowds. A concurrent media battle is also being waged, with both the government and foreign-backed opposition accused of circulating fake news, complicating efforts to verify events on the ground.