Millions in Iran without internet for more than 48 hours

Iran has been facing an internet blackout for over 48 hours, as reported by the cybersecurity group NetBlocks, coinciding with the third day of ongoing conflict. The government has often used internet shutdowns as a strategy, with a notable instance occurring in January when the internet was down for several weeks during protests against the government. CNN reporters on the ground indicate that there is some internet access, unlike the complete blackout seen last month. In the meantime, Hassan Khomeini, the grandson of the Islamic Republic's founder and a potential candidate for the next Supreme Leader of Iran, has called on citizens to stay active in the streets and mosques. He urged, “Do not leave the streets and mosques for even a moment. Our strength comes from the people's presence and their hearts,” as stated by Iran's semi-official news outlet Tasnim. Khomeini added, “Starting today and throughout the war, it is everyone’s duty to fill the mosques.” He emphasized that “our strongholds are the mosques and city squares. Every square should be filled with people dressed in black and carrying the flag of Imam Hussein.” As the grandson of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, Hassan Khomeini holds significant religious and revolutionary credibility. He is the custodian of the Khomeini mausoleum but has not held a public office and seems to lack influence within Iran's security forces or ruling class. He is considered to be more moderate compared to many of his counterparts and was prevented from running for the Assembly of Experts in 2016.