In brief
In response to recent unrest, Iran has ramped up security in Tehran, implementing checkpoints and restricting internet access to thwart potential anti-establishment protests. Residents have reported search operations and warnings sent through text messages. Violence from military actions has intensified concerns, as evidenced by reports of security personnel casualties from enemy strikes. As the government pushes for pro-establishment rallies and exercises control over communication channels, citizens are finding creative ways to navigate the heightened security landscape.
Iran is taking steps to prevent anti-establishment protests, with checkpoints appearing across the streets of the capital, internet access restricted, and mass text warnings sent to residents.
In Tehran, people have been telling the BBC about new security checkpoints around the city, where they say residents are stopped and searched.
They reported checkpoints positioned under footbridges and inside road tunnels, after recent drone strikes targeted several checkpoints.
A number of Iranian security personnel were reported killed in strikes across Tehran. Unofficial counts indicated up to 10 fatalities among the security forces during these incidents.
Tehran residents are adapting to these security measures. One young man explained his tactic for dealing with checkpoints: I started saying things like, 'Thanks for your hard work,' as if they were genuinely putting in a lot of effort and I appreciated it. He noted that his strategy worked and he was allowed to go after a search.
Another resident expressed concerns about her clothing choices, stating, I always wear colourful clothes. But now I don't. I'm scared of their patrols, worried that if I wear something too bright it might annoy them.
Restricted Internet Hinders Co-ordination
In addition to physical barriers, Iran has also imposed internet restrictions that hinder residents' ability to communicate and organize protests. Despite these challenges, some tech-savvy individuals are circumventing restrictions using secure internet connections.
Starlink devices are becoming increasingly important for maintaining internet access; however, authorities are conducting crackdowns to prevent their use. Selling unfiltered internet access can lead to serious legal repercussions in Iran.
The Iranian government is keenly aware of the risks posed by organized protests and has sent out warnings through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps regarding the potential consequences of dissent.
As unrest continues to build, the authorities have organized pro-establishment rallies and dispatched warnings against any stirring of dissent, with officials labeling potential protesters as enemies of the state.
Despite the crackdown, some citizens reportedly still hear signs of discontent, with pro-establishment slogans echoing through the streets at night. BBC Persian remains a vital outlet for local news, though it faces consistent government jamming.
