Nearly three weeks into one of the most extreme internet shutdowns in history, some of Iran's 92 million citizens are beginning to get back online - but access appears to be tightly controlled. The country cut off internet access on 8 January, in what is widely seen as an attempt to stem the flow of information about a government crackdown on protesters. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the internet was blocked in response to what he described as 'terrorist operations'. Now there is evidence that some internet access has returned - but independent analysis indicates much of the country is still effectively cut off from the outside world.
Iran's reformist Shargh newspaper has reported that some officials had claimed mobile internet had been restored. However, it said many users still do not have full access and can only connect intermittently and for very limited periods, often after repeated attempts. Firms which monitor web traffic say there are signs of the internet being used inconsistently, raising questions about who is able to connect, and under what conditions. What we're seeing isn't a return to normal, said Doug Madory, director of internet analysis at network intelligence firm Kentik. Authorities may be testing a new system to block web traffic, with adjustments being made in real-time, according to internet monitoring group NetBlocks.
Human rights organizations assert that the control over internet access has significantly hampered efforts to disseminate information regarding the protests. Reports indicate that at least 5,925 lives have been lost in the crackdown, with more casualties likely as investigations continue. Internet rights observers warn the unrest may have provided authorities with an opportunity to accelerate long-planned efforts to tighten control over online access, a move that would face severe resistance under normal circumstances.
While there are signs of limited access returning—for some individuals being able to use platforms like Google Meet and FaceTime—the government continues efforts to restrict various foreign messaging apps, keeping domestic communication tightly regulated. Reports from business circles reveal a system where only a select number of individuals can access unfiltered internet, and even this access is rationed and monitored intensively. Overall, indicators suggest a long-term strategy aimed at isolating Iran digitally from global networks, raising concerns regarding the implications for freedom and transparency in the region.
Iran's reformist Shargh newspaper has reported that some officials had claimed mobile internet had been restored. However, it said many users still do not have full access and can only connect intermittently and for very limited periods, often after repeated attempts. Firms which monitor web traffic say there are signs of the internet being used inconsistently, raising questions about who is able to connect, and under what conditions. What we're seeing isn't a return to normal, said Doug Madory, director of internet analysis at network intelligence firm Kentik. Authorities may be testing a new system to block web traffic, with adjustments being made in real-time, according to internet monitoring group NetBlocks.
Human rights organizations assert that the control over internet access has significantly hampered efforts to disseminate information regarding the protests. Reports indicate that at least 5,925 lives have been lost in the crackdown, with more casualties likely as investigations continue. Internet rights observers warn the unrest may have provided authorities with an opportunity to accelerate long-planned efforts to tighten control over online access, a move that would face severe resistance under normal circumstances.
While there are signs of limited access returning—for some individuals being able to use platforms like Google Meet and FaceTime—the government continues efforts to restrict various foreign messaging apps, keeping domestic communication tightly regulated. Reports from business circles reveal a system where only a select number of individuals can access unfiltered internet, and even this access is rationed and monitored intensively. Overall, indicators suggest a long-term strategy aimed at isolating Iran digitally from global networks, raising concerns regarding the implications for freedom and transparency in the region.
