By Shahed Ghoreishi
The Iranian people have regained access to the internet, but their frustrations are far from over.
Tehran's internet shut down cost $1.5 billion and was part of a violent crackdown that cost 200 lives and counting. The protests began in November after the Rouhani administration bungled the implementation of an IMF-recommended reduction in gasoline subsidies by suddenly doubling prices overnight, leading the Iranian people to voice their frustration — not only about the increase in gasoline prices, but over the ever-increasing burden of getting by in the Islamic Republic.
In the midst of all this chaos, the Trump administration actually claimed credit for the events that transpired. Iran hawks say the protests are proof their plan is working. They say Iranians are angry that their government has not capitulated to the US and will force their rulers by pressure or revolution.
This piece was originally published by Business Insider on December 4, 2019. Read more HERE.