Iran seizes 'Starlink' devices, alleges 'espionage' use amid unrest

"Iranian state television aired footage on Tuesday of confiscated Starlink devices, which officials allege were used for 'espionage' during riots that have accompanied widespread nationwide protests. The Iranian government imposed a near-total internet blackout since last Thursday in response to the unrest. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Monday that "internet service will be restored in coordination with the authorities." The wave of protests, which began in Tehran on December 28 and spread to other cities, was triggered by a deteriorating economic situation and the devaluation of Iran's currency. Iranian officials affirm their efforts to meet the protesters' demands, which they acknowledge as 'justified' within available means. However, they emphasise that the 'enemy' is exploiting domestic economic hardships to stir unrest in the country. "Iranian patriots, keep protesting, take over your institutions! Save the names of the killers and abusers, they will pay a big price," Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday. "I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian officials until the senseless killing of protesters stops. Help is on its way," he added. Several Iranian cities experienced riots and vandalism damaging public property. The Iranian president accused what he termed the 'enemy' of "training a group inside and outside Iran and bringing terrorists into the country." Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei stated that some protesters "destroyed a building and a wall merely to satisfy the American president." Pro-government rallies were held across the country in support of state-led reforms and to condemn the acts of rioting. "