Iran's Reconnection to the World Amidst Heavy Security

For the first time since a severe crackdown, Iranians were able to make international calls using mobile phones. This marks a significant development since the unrest that led to the loss of over 646 lives, according to activists.

Despite being cut off from the globe, a few individuals in Tehran managed to contact The Associated Press. However, attempts by the AP bureau in Dubai to return those calls were unsuccessful. Text messaging services remain non-functional, and internet access in Iran is restricted to only local, government-sanctioned sites.

The accounts from inside Tehran paint a picture of a city under tight control. Witnesses described seeing numerous security personnel stationed around central areas.

Military Presence and Civil Unrest

Witnesses detailed the presence of riot police equipped with protective gear and armed with bats, shields, shotguns, and tear gas launchers at key city intersections. Additionally, plainclothes officers and Revolutionary Guard volunteers were seen carrying firearms and batons.

Reports indicated significant damage to banking institutions, with ATMs destroyed and financial transactions severely hampered due to internet disruptions. Meanwhile, retail activity resumed with shops reopening, though foot traffic was reportedly sparse.

Government Pressures and Market Impact

The Grand Bazaar, epicenter of the recent protests, was pressured to open, as described by local merchants. Even though shopkeepers expressed reluctance, security forces allegedly ordered resumption of business operations without exception, a fact unreported by state media.

To avoid identification, witnesses chose to remain unnamed.

International Reactions

U.S. President Donald Trump threatened increased tariffs on nations engaging in trade with Iran, a measure to pressure the Islamic Republic post-crackdown, asserting tariffs as an effective negotiation tool. Countries like Brazil, China, and Russia are among those affected by this policy.

Simultaneously, communication between Iran and the U.S. continues, as confirmed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, even amid tensions. He emphasized inconsistency between Washington's suggestions and threats.

White House official Karoline Leavitt noted a divergence between Iran's public statements and private communications with the U.S, hinting at the President's willingness to consider these messages while cautioning potential for military action.

Domestic Consequences

Pro-government demonstrations showcased in state media featured mass gatherings chanting against U.S. and Israeli actions. Iran's attorney general issued stern warnings against protesters, escalating to existential threats.

The crackdown has led to mass detentions, with over 10,700 arrests reported by a U.S.-based rights agency. These included 512 protesters and 134 members of security forces among the fatalities.

As internet restrictions persist, it remains challenging to gather accurate insights on the protests from outside Iran. The government has yet to release comprehensive casualty numbers.