Iran Protests Escalate: US Backs Protesters Amid Internet Blackout, Economic Crisis

• Iran experienced a nationwide internet blackout on Thursday as protests over economic downfall intensified.
• Reza Pahlavi, exiled son of Iran's late Shah, called for more protests in a video post on X.
• Demonstrators chanted pro-Pahlavi slogans in several Iranian cities, marking the biggest wave of dissent in three years.
• Protests began in Tehran's Grand Bazaar due to the rial currency's free fall and spread nationwide over economic distress.
• US President Donald Trump threatened intervention if Iranian security forces fire on protesters, increasing international pressure.

Why It Matters: Iran faces widespread protests, internet blackout, and international pressure over economic crisis and dissent.