Iran warns protesters of the death penalty as crackdown grows

Iran has warned protesters they could face the death penalty as authorities expand a crackdown, and monitoring group Netblocks says a nationwide internet shutdown has been maintained for more than 24 hours.

Authorities in Iran have warned protesters they could face the death penalty as security measures expand. Monitoring group Netblocks reported a nationwide internet shutdown has been maintained for more than 24 hours. News agency efforts to reach individuals in Iran by landline and mobile phone reportedly failed, and a Tehran resident said calls were not working or were cutting in and out while SMS messages were heavily restricted. Benchmark Brent crude was reported to have risen about 4% this week to above $62 per barrel amid the unrest. Key facts: - Authorities announced warnings that protesters may face the death penalty, according to the article. - Netblocks said a nationwide internet shutdown has been maintained for more than 24 hours, and attempts to reach residents by phone reportedly failed. - The article reports benchmark Brent crude rose about 4% this week to above $62 per barrel. Summary: The reported warning of the death penalty and the continuing nationwide internet shutdown indicate a heightened government response and have limited outside contact with residents. Market reporting noted a rise in Brent crude prices; what happens next is undetermined at this time.