Burak Bir
15 January 2026•Update: 15 January 2026
LONDON
France is looking at the possibility of sending Eutelsat satellite terminals to Iran to help restore internet access, the foreign minister said Wednesday.
Jean-Noel Barrot told lawmakers that the government is considering all options to help restore internet access in Iran, as a communications blackout and internet blockade remain in place due to continued protests because of worsening economic conditions.
International calls and internet services were shut down by the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology on orders from the top security body.
The move came as anti-government protests swept Tehran and several cities across the country for deteriorating economic conditions and the record depreciation of the national currency, the rial.
Government officials have accused the US and Israel of backing "riots" and "terrorism."
Authorities have not released official figures on casualties or detainees. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), a US-based group, estimates that at least 2,500 people have been killed, including protesters and security personnel, with more than 1,100 injured.
