Full Breakdown
The Role of Music Amid Iran's Protests and Internet Shutdown
2/16/2026, 1:44:06 AM
Background of the Protests
In late December 2025, widespread protests erupted in Iran, primarily driven by economic hardship, including a significant drop in the value of the rial and soaring inflation. These protests intensified into January 2026, leading to a government crackdown that resulted in mass arrests and a nationwide internet shutdown. This shutdown left approximately 81 million people without reliable communication, disrupting daily life and limiting access to information and cultural expressions, particularly music.
Impact of the Internet Shutdown on Music
During the internet blackout, many Iranians turned to physical means to share music, exchanging flash drives filled with songs in cafes and private gatherings. R.A., a classical music student, expressed the importance of music during this time, stating, “We can’t just stay away from music. We have to listen.” The shutdown forced individuals to rely on previously downloaded music, limiting their exposure to new influences and inspiration. R.A. noted that her friends began exploring protest music, reflecting a shift in their musical interests as they sought to express their feelings about the ongoing turmoil.
B.R., who returned to Iran from Vienna, described how the shutdown altered his daily life, making navigation and communication nearly impossible. He, too, found solace in music, revisiting songs that held personal significance. A.R., an economist who experienced the shutdown firsthand, observed that listening habits became repetitive, focusing on self-soothing melodies as a coping mechanism.
The Broader Cultural Response
Prominent Iranian musician Rana Farhan, who has lived in the United States since 1989, articulated the emotional weight of watching events unfold from afar. She emphasized the responsibility artists feel to address the struggles of their homeland, stating, “By telling our story, we are telling their stories.” Farhan's reflections highlight the duality of distance and connection, as she continues to create music that resonates with the current situation in Iran.
Government Crackdown and Arrests
The Iranian government's response to the protests has been severe, with reports indicating over 50,000 arrests, including university students, minors, and professionals. Activists have documented widespread detentions and the use of surveillance to identify and apprehend protesters. The Human Rights Activists News Agency reported more than 7,000 deaths, although the true number is believed to be higher. The judiciary has labeled protesters as "terrorists," intensifying the crackdown.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the oppressive environment, civic groups and individuals have voiced their dissent. The Writers' Association of Iran and various labor organizations have condemned the government's actions, calling the protests an uprising against systemic corruption and discrimination. Exiled figures, such as Reza Pahlavi, have urged international support for the Iranian people, warning of the consequences of inaction.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Because we can’t just stay away from music,” — R.A., Classical Music Student
- “Normal life disrupted,” — B.R., Iranian Expat
- “By telling our story, we are telling their stories.” — Rana Farhan, Musician
- “The following of the law is in the worst situation it has ever been,” — Musa Barzin, Attorney
Conclusion
As the protests continue and the government maintains its grip on power, music has emerged as a vital form of expression and resistance for many Iranians. The internet shutdown has not only limited access to information but has also transformed how individuals connect with their cultural heritage and each other. In this challenging landscape, music serves as both a refuge and a rallying cry for change.
