The Iranian protest movement is being amplified through music, particularly by diaspora artists like Tony Mohraz, known as 021kid. Mohraz, who left Iran at 21, has witnessed the oppressive environment for expression under the Islamist regime, where rap music is largely banned. Now based in the UK, he has embraced drill music to convey his experiences and frustrations, as young Iranians continue to face cycles of protests and violent crackdowns. The situation escalated in early 2026, with the regime responding to protests with live ammunition, resulting in thousands of deaths and a second Internet shutdown, complicating efforts to report on the ongoing unrest. Mohraz argues that the Iranian government’s control extends to communications technology, using apps like Bale to monitor and restrict internet access.
Why It Matters
This story highlights the intersection of art and activism in the context of Iran’s ongoing political unrest. The Iranian regime’s history of suppressing free expression, particularly through violent measures against dissent, has led to a significant diaspora that uses music to amplify their struggles globally. The protests of 2026, marked by severe regime crackdowns, have drawn international attention and military responses from countries such as the US and Israel. This situation underscores the critical role of technology and communication in modern protests, revealing how regimes manipulate digital spaces to maintain control over their citizens.
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