Iran is currently experiencing one of its longest internet shutdowns, with over 92 million citizens unable to access the internet for more than a week. This shutdown, initiated by the government in response to anti-government protests, highlights the challenges governments face in controlling and restricting access to the internet during times of unrest.
Authorities have resorted to a complete blackout of internet and phone services across the country to quell dissent, leading to a severe information blockade for its citizens. According to experts, this shutdown ranks as one of the longest in Iran’s history, surpassing previous records set in 2019 and 2025.
Isik Mater, the director of research at NetBlocks, notes that Iran’s internet shutdowns are among the most comprehensive and strictly enforced nationwide. Zach Rosson, a researcher at Access Now, points out that Iran’s current shutdown is on track to become one of the top 10 longest shutdowns globally, based on available data.
This trend raises concerns about the increasing use of internet restrictions as a tool for political control and suppression. As technology continues to play a pivotal role in shaping societies, the case of Iran’s internet shutdown serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between national security measures and the fundamental right to access information.
Source: TechCrunch