Millions of Iranians protested demanding freedom as the government shut down internet, phone lines, and power supplies to control the unrest. Reza Pahlavi, son of the late shah, praised the "courageous compatriots" on X, calling for global leaders to help restore communication. He said, "Do not let the voices of my courageous compatriots be silenced." Iranian state TV ignored the blackout and focused on food subsidies instead. US Vice President JD Vance said, "We certainly stand by anybody who's engaged in peaceful protests," and urged Iran to negotiate seriously on its nuclear program. Former President Donald Trump warned Tehran on Truth Social: "If Iran violently kills peaceful protesters... the United States of America will come to their rescue. We are locked and loaded and ready to go." Trump added in an interview, "If they start killing people... we are going to hit them very hard." The unrest began in Tehran's bazaars after the Iranian rial lost nearly half its value, causing inflation near 50%. Protests spread nationwide with chants against the regime. Iranian authorities responded with a public holiday in many provinces to curb protests. Security forces cracked down with arrests and violence; at least one paramilitary officer died, and dozens were injured amid clashes and attempts to storm government buildings. Supreme Leader Khamenei also appointed military officials to key posts, signaling tighter control. The repeated internet cuts are seen as efforts to silence the public and halt protest momentum. Iran’s crisis deepens as its people demand change amid harsh economic and political conditions.