### Heavy Security and Communication Restrictions in Iran Amid Ongoing Protests In recent days, Iranians have faced significant communication restrictions as authorities imposed a crackdown on nationwide protests. Following a complete shutdown of internet services and international calling capabilities, residents were finally able to make phone calls abroad on January 13, 2026. This development comes amidst reports of heavy security presence and a rising death toll, with activists claiming at least 648 fatalities due to the violent suppression of dissent [https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/iranians-able-to-make-calls-abroad-but-internet-remains-offline-after-protests-1851783.html][https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3767763-iran-restores-mobile-communication-amidst-ongoing-protests-and-political-turmoil]. ### Overview of the Situation in Iran 1. **Communication Restrictions**: - Authorities cut off internet access and international calling on January 9, 2026, as protests intensified [https://www.local10.com/news/world/2026/01/13/iranians-able-to-make-some-calls-abroad-while-internet-access-is-still-out-after-protests]. - On January 13, mobile phones were allowed to make international calls again, although internet access remained blocked [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/entertainment/3767563-iran-lifts-ban-on-international-calls-amidst-ongoing-protests]. 2. **Protests and Security Measures**: - The protests have been marked by a heavy security presence, with reports of scattered damage in various locations [https://www.knkx.org/2026-01-13/people-in-iran-describe-heavy-security-and-some-damage-in-first-calls-to-outside-world]. - Witnesses describe a tense atmosphere, with many residents expressing fear and uncertainty [https://www.latestly.com/world/iran-protests-iranians-able-to-make-some-calls-abroad-while-internet-access-still-out-7273424.html]. 3. **International Response**: - Finland's foreign minister announced plans to summon Iran's ambassador in response to the violent crackdown, emphasizing the need for accountability [https://24newshd.tv/13-jan-2026/international-phone-calls-resume-iran-afp-correspondent]. - The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for restoring communication and supporting the Iranian people's right to protest [https://www.newarab.com/news/iran-eases-communications-blackout-protests-continue]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Death Toll**: Reports indicate that at least **648 people** have died as a result of the protests and subsequent government crackdown [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3767763-iran-restores-mobile-communication-amidst-ongoing-protests-and-political-turmoil]. - **Duration of Internet Blackout**: The internet blackout lasted over **108 hours**, significantly impacting communication within and outside the country [https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/iranians-able-to-make-calls-abroad-but-internet-remains-offline-after-protests-1851783.html]. - **Resumption of Calls**: International calls resumed on January 13, 2026, marking a critical moment for communication amid ongoing unrest [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/entertainment/3767563-iran-lifts-ban-on-international-calls-amidst-ongoing-protests]. ### Conclusion: A Critical Moment for Iran The recent easing of communication restrictions in Iran, allowing for international calls while the internet remains offline, highlights the ongoing struggle between the government and its citizens amid widespread protests. 1. **Communication Resumed**: International calls have been restored, providing a vital link for Iranians to communicate with the outside world [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/entertainment/3767563-iran-lifts-ban-on-international-calls-amidst-ongoing-protests]. 2. **Continued Protests**: Despite the resumption of calls, protests continue, with a significant death toll reported [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3767763-iran-restores-mobile-communication-amidst-ongoing-protests-and-political-turmoil]. 3. **International Scrutiny**: The situation remains under close watch by the international community, with calls for accountability and support for the Iranian people [https://24newshd.tv/13-jan-2026/international-phone-calls-resume-iran-afp-correspondent]. This situation remains fluid, and the implications for both domestic and international relations are profound as the Iranian government navigates this critical juncture.