Internet access has begun to be restored across Iran after a nearly three-month-long disruption, according to the country’s first vice-president.
Initial Restoration Efforts
“The first step toward free and regulated access to cyberspace has been taken,” Mohammad Reza Aref announced on X on Tuesday. Internet monitoring groups Netblocks and Kentik reported a “partial” restoration around 13:00 GMT, though Kentik cautioned that most networks remained offline.
Background to the Blackout
The Iranian government initially cut internet access following reported US and Israeli attacks on February 28. Officials stated the measure aimed to prevent surveillance, espionage, and cyber-attacks. This shutdown marks one of the longest national internet blackouts recorded globally.
Impact on Citizens and Businesses
A content creator in Tehran confirmed to the BBC that he was able to connect to the internet via his home WiFi on Tuesday, expressing relief that “some of my income will come back.” However, Netblocks noted the uncertainty regarding the sustainability of the restoration, consistent with observations from previous blackouts where full recovery could take hours.
Concerns Over Restrictions
Isik Mater, research director for the global internet tracker, stated on Tuesday, “Access is not universally back to its original state, with some regional variation.” She also highlighted signs of “more extensive filtering” compared to before January – when a similar blackout occurred amidst anti-government protests – including additional restrictions on messaging applications like WhatsApp. Mater warned that “families may still struggle to contact loved ones for the time being,” adding that historically, internet restorations in Iran have often come with “heavier restrictions and tighter controls.”
Previous Shutdowns and Workarounds
Prior to the recent cut-off, Iran had experienced only about a month of full internet access following a January shutdown. During periods of restriction, some Iranians resorted to using expensive virtual private networks (VPNs) and smuggling satellite technology to bypass controls.
“Internet Pro” Scheme and Recent Developments
Following a ceasefire agreement on April 8, the Iranian government introduced an “internet pro” scheme, a premium service offering higher-quality access for businesses and professionals, subject to identity verification and a fee. Despite some officials describing it as a temporary measure not part of official policy, the scheme faced criticism. A doctor in Isfahan, who did not subscribe to the “internet pro” scheme, also reported connecting via home WiFi on Tuesday. The network’s return coincides with Iran’s condemnation of fresh US strikes earlier this week, which it labeled a “gross violation” of the ceasefire. The US, in turn, described its Monday strikes in southern Iran, targeting Iranian missile sites and boats allegedly attempting to place mines, as “self-defense strikes.”
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