Iran’s President Orders Internet Restoration After an 87-Day Shutdown

90 Million Left Disconnected

According to Главком: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has signed a directive to restore international internet access after an 87-day blackout that affected the vast majority of the country’s 90 million people. The initial shutdown was imposed on January 8, 2023, in response to widespread domestic protests. Although connectivity began to gradually return in early February, authorities cut off the global network again on February 28 following the start of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

The loss of international internet access severely disrupted daily life for Iranians. Many were forced to rely on expensive VPN services, which became the only gateway to the global web. During this period, the government also expanded the national intranet, further restricting users’ capabilities. Schools shifted to online learning exclusively within this closed system, making it far harder for students to access educational materials.

Access to most international platforms and social media networks remained blocked in Iran, creating major challenges for small business owners who depended on Instagram and WhatsApp as their primary tools for communication and selling goods.

Human rights advocates argue that “restoring internet access must be a non-negotiable condition in any talks with Iranian authorities,” highlighting the critical role of information and communication in today’s world.

The reinstatement of international internet in Iran could significantly reshape the country’s social and economic landscape. After such a prolonged blackout, Iranians will be able to reconnect with global networks, boosting opportunities for entrepreneurship and education. It may also open up new channels for dialogue between Iranian society and the international community, especially amid ongoing political tensions. However, rights groups stress the need to keep monitoring human rights and free speech in the country, as access to information remains a vital concern.

The recent directive to restore international internet access marks a significant shift in Iran's digital landscape, especially after the prolonged blackout that left millions disconnected. For those interested in understanding the broader implications of such restrictions, the situation in Iran remains critical as the country faces ongoing challenges. To explore how the internet blackout continues to affect daily life and the potential consequences for the future, read more about Iran's total internet shutdown in 2026 here.