Award-winning filmmakers warn of impact of Iran communication shutdowns

Two internationally recognized Iranian filmmakers warned about the consequences of cutting Iranians’ communication with the outside world in a joint statement.

"In recent days, after millions of Iranians took to the streets against the Islamic Republic, authorities turned again to their most stark tool of repression by shutting down internet access as well as mobile and landline phone services inside the country, while also blocking contact with the outside world," Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof wrote.

Experience, they said, shows such shutdowns are used to conceal violence during the suppression of protests.

The filmmakers said they are deeply concerned for the lives of fellow citizens, families, colleagues and friends left defenseless, and urged the international community, human rights organizations and media to urgently find ways to ensure access to independent information and oversight, warning that silence today would carry lasting consequences.