Mass anti-government protests continued across Tehran on Saturday night despite an almost complete internet shutdown, according to AFP. The demonstrations, which began two weeks earlier over economic hardship, have evolved into calls for the overthrow of Iran’s religious leadership. Authorities have blamed the United States for inciting unrest, while human rights groups report dozens killed and warn of escalating violence. Internet monitoring group NetBlocks confirmed that connectivity in Iran has been nearly nonexistent since Thursday.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that his country is ready to support the movement, while reports indicate he has been briefed on possible military options against Iran. Former crown prince Reza Pahlavi urged Iranians to organize and seize control of key urban centers. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused protesters of acting under Trump’s direction. Amnesty International and Iran Human Rights reported alarming use of lethal force, with at least 51 deaths confirmed.

The Iranian army vowed to act firmly against those disrupting order, as the EU and other world leaders called for restraint. Residents in Tehran described daily life paralyzed by the blackout, saying they are prepared to endure hardship until victory.