Armenia Loses Contact with Diaspora in Iran Amid Nationwide Blackout

Armenian authorities have confirmed that they are unable to communicate with their diaspora community in Iran due to a widespread communications blackout. Both mobile networks and satellite internet services have reportedly been disrupted, leaving officials in Yerevan unable to assess the situation on the ground.

The blackout comes amid ongoing anti-government protests that have swept across Iran over the past week. Demonstrators have clashed with security forces in multiple cities, triggering concerns over civilian safety and escalating violence.

Humanitarian organizations monitoring the unrest warn that hundreds of people may have been killed and thousands detained, though precise figures are unavailable due to the limited flow of information. The situation remains volatile, with reports of road closures and strict curfews in affected areas.

Iran is home to a historic Armenian population, one of the country’s oldest Christian minorities. Estimates place the number of Armenians in Iran between 100,000 and 150,000, concentrated in cities such as Tehran and Isfahan. Many of these communities have lived in the country for generations, maintaining churches, schools, and cultural institutions.

Armenia’s High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs expressed deep concern over the lack of communication. Officials said they are exploring measures to gather information at border points, a tactic used during previous crises to ensure the safety of citizens abroad.

The Armenian government has emphasized that no evacuation plans have yet been initiated, citing the need for verified intelligence before taking further steps. Authorities continue to coordinate with regional contacts to monitor developments as the protests evolve.

Local media outlets serving Iran’s Armenian community have also faced disruptions, further complicating efforts to relay information to international observers and diaspora organizations. The blackout has made it increasingly difficult to confirm the wellbeing of the community or the scale of disruptions.

As tensions continue to mount in Iran, Armenian officials urge caution and patience while seeking reliable updates. The situation underscores the vulnerability of diaspora populations during periods of political unrest and highlights the challenges governments face in protecting citizens abroad under restricted communication conditions.