Internet access has begun to be restored in Iran after a nearly three-month blackout, as announced by the country’s first vice-president, Mohammad Reza Aref. The shutdown was implemented following the onset of U.S. and Israeli military actions on February 28, with officials claiming it was necessary to thwart potential surveillance and cyber-attacks. Internet monitoring organizations Netblocks and Kentik reported “partial” restoration of services, although connectivity remains limited and unstable in many areas. Users, including a content creator from Tehran, reported being able to access the internet again, which is critical for their livelihoods. However, Netblocks expressed uncertainty about the longevity of this restoration, noting signs of increased filtering compared to previous outages.
Why It Matters
The internet blackout in Iran is one of the longest recorded globally, reflecting the government’s strategy to control information and limit external influences during times of conflict or civil unrest. The shutdown coincided with significant military actions and domestic protests, highlighting the regime’s focus on maintaining internal security over public access to information. Previous instances of internet restrictions in Iran have been linked to efforts to suppress dissent and manage the flow of information, indicating a pattern of state control over digital communications during crises. The partial restoration of access may indicate a shift in governmental policy or pressure from citizens and international entities advocating for digital rights.
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