Tehran, Iran – In a development reflecting the extent of the information blockade imposed by Iranian authorities, NetBlocks, an organization that monitors network security and internet freedom worldwide, reported that the nationwide internet blackout in Iran entered its 70th day on Friday.
This systematic shutdown comes amid continued restrictions on access to the global network. These restrictions have been in place since the start of military operations on February 28.
Widespread isolation and digital blockade
According to a report by NetBlocks, this digital blackout imposed by the Iranian government has exceeded 1,600 hours of continuous outage.
This measure has not been limited to conflict zones but has extended to most Iranian provinces. As a result, it has led to widespread isolation of the country from the outside world and the global internet. It also represents one of the longest and most complex internet shutdowns the region has witnessed in recent years.
Lack of information and disintegration of family ties
This coercive measure has created extremely complex logistical and humanitarian difficulties. It has become virtually impossible for citizens inside Iran to obtain accurate and up-to-date information about the ongoing military operations or maps of safe zones.
The damage has not been limited to the informational sphere; it has extended to the social sphere as well. Millions of Iranians have been severely restricted in their ability to communicate with their families and relatives, whether inside the besieged cities or those living abroad. This has exacerbated public anxiety and confusion.
Attempts to breach the digital wall
Despite this strict ban and tight censorship, field reports indicate that a very limited number of users, particularly in tech circles and among activists, are striving to circumvent this blockade.
These attempts are made by relying on satellite internet technologies provided by some international companies, or by using sophisticated Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) capable of bypassing government firewalls.
However, NetBlocks has emphasized that these alternative methods remain limited in scope, expensive, and unstable, and cannot be relied upon as a replacement for the collapsed national network. Furthermore, authorities are conducting parallel campaigns to disable VPN servers. This makes accessing the outside world a risky technological undertaking.
International outcry and economic warnings
Experts believe that this ongoing internet blackout is not only aimed at controlling the security narrative, but is also causing a complete paralysis of business and e-commerce sectors that rely entirely on internet connectivity. While the international community is calling for the restoration of service for humanitarian reasons, Tehran continues to cling to its decision under the pretext of “national security.” This leaves millions of Iranians in complete digital darkness with no end in sight.
