The atmosphere in Tehran, the capital of Iran, is “extremely heavy and tense” with the violent crackdown on protests across the country, a resident told CNN.
“Everyone knows that a mass massacre occurred (sic)creating an extremely heavy and tense atmosphere,” said the 47-year-old man, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals.
“People are traumatized and even have difficulty talking about what happened,” he commented.
The source reported that movement between neighborhoods is prohibited after 8pm and there is a “semi-military situation in force”. In any case, the last two days have been “peaceful”, with people gathering “in their own areas”.
“The police generally tolerate chants and crowds, but the moment they notice movement or escalation of violence, they respond violently,” he highlighted.
“My friend witnessed point-blank shootings,” he added.
He said there was only partial internet connection, with access “limited to one or two government-approved apps related to schools, universities and banks” and most people completely isolated.
Blocking the internet makes it difficult to exchange information
A state-imposed internet blockade of anti-government protests.
At least 2,403 protesters, according to US-based news agency HRANA (Human Rights Activists News Agency), but the confirmed number could increase as more information is released.
“Because of this blockade, most people inside Iran have not seen Kahrizak’s videos or other recent images,” said the man interviewed by the report, referring to videos showing rows of body bags in a makeshift morgue.
“The news is spreading slowly, mainly through rumors,” he added.
“Politically, most people do not identify with any group or figure. Survival comes first: fear for one’s life, then the fight for basic sustenance”, he concluded.
