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Partial internet restoration in Iran after weeks-long blackout
Nearly three weeks after Iran imposed one of its most severe internet shutdowns, some citizens are regaining online access-but under tight government restrictions, analysts say.
Government justifies shutdown as counter-terrorism measure
Iranian authorities cut off internet access on 8 January, citing what Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called "terrorist operations." The move coincided with a violent crackdown on anti-government protests, which human rights groups say has left thousands dead or detained.
The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported 5,925 confirmed protester deaths as of 26 January, with an additional 17,091 fatalities under review. Observers warn the true toll may be significantly higher.
Selective connectivity raises surveillance concerns
While Iran's reformist Shargh newspaper reported partial mobile internet restoration, independent monitors describe a fragmented system. Users experience intermittent, short-lived connections after repeated attempts, with major platforms blocked or allowed unpredictably.
"What we're seeing isn't a return to normal. Major platforms are being allowed and blocked at different times during the day."
Doug Madory, Director of Internet Analysis, Kentik
Amir Rashidi of the Miaan Group, a cybersecurity organization, said access appears limited to government-approved users. NetBlocks, an internet monitoring group, confirmed erratic connectivity patterns, suggesting real-time filtering tests by authorities.
Businesses granted rationed access under supervision
Amid economic losses estimated at $35 million daily, officials have introduced tightly controlled internet access for select businesses. Members of the Tehran Chamber of Commerce reported receiving 20-30 minutes of unfiltered access per day-under supervision and after multi-stage identity verification.
"The system is effectively paralyzing and humiliating. If work isn't completed in the allotted time, the entire verification process must be repeated."
Anonymous Tehran Chamber of Commerce member
The source added that some businesspeople were required to sign pledges not to share protest-related files. Foreign messaging apps like WhatsApp remain restricted, though some users briefly accessed Google Meet and Telegram via VPNs-tools authorities are determined to block.
Long-term plans to isolate Iran's internet
Internet freedom group FilterWatch warned of accelerated efforts to sever Iran's connection to the global internet. Kentik's Madory noted traffic patterns suggest a full restoration may never occur.
Rashidi explained that even minimal connectivity could enable VPNs, but authorities are actively suppressing such workarounds. The current system appears designed to maintain control while mitigating economic damage from the shutdown.
