Iran partially restores Internet after days of blackout

TEHRAN -- Some citizens in Iran have been provided with access to the Internet after several days of nationwide blackout, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported on Saturday, without giving more details.

Also on Saturday, the country restored short message service (SMS).

Iran imposed severe Internet restrictions on access to the global Internet and suspended SMS on Jan 8, citing riots and terrorist attacks targeting civilians, security forces and public buildings.

On Monday, media cited Iran's top cyberspace authority as saying that Internet access would remain restricted until officials confirm the restoration of full security.

Protests erupted since late December in several Iranian cities over the sharp depreciation of the rial. Authorities have acknowledged the demonstrations and said they are prepared to address economic grievances, while warning against violence, vandalism, and unrest.

Initially held peacefully, the protests gradually became violent, leading to casualties and damage to public property, mosques, government buildings, and banks, especially on Jan 8 and 9, for which Iranian authorities have blamed the United States and Israel.