Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the restoration of international internet access after nearly 90 days of a blackout, as reported by state media. This decision follows extensive restrictions imposed due to anti-government protests and subsequent military actions involving the U.S. and Israel. While the specifics of the reconnection process remain unclear, many Iranians have been largely cut off from the global internet during this time, with only a few using costly VPNs to bypass the restrictions. The internet blackout began on January 8 and was initially eased in February before being reinstated on February 28 in response to escalating tensions.
Why It Matters
The internet blackout in Iran reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to control information and suppress dissent amid regional conflicts and domestic unrest. Historically, such blackouts have been a tactic used by authoritarian regimes to limit citizens’ access to information and reduce the impact of protests. Censorship remains a significant issue, with many websites blocked and a reliance on an intranet for educational services. The restoration of internet access could indicate a shift in governmental strategy amid international pressures and internal demands for greater freedom.
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