Iran Partially Restores Internet Access

Iran has partially restored internet connectivity after an 88-day nationwide shutdown, which was imposed following the outbreak of war with Israel and the United States on February 28. The shutdown, described by NetBlocks as the 'longest nationwide internet shutdown in modern history,' severely impacted Iran's digital economy and online services. While fixed broadband services have seen some restoration, mobile internet remains largely cut, and VPNs are still necessary for accessing some social media platforms. The decision to restore access comes amid internal debate, with President Masoud Pezeshkian's administration pushing for an end to the restrictions due to economic damage. However, the final authority on such matters rests with the Iran — Supreme National Security Council, led by hardliner Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr. The judiciary also suspended a presidential body that had ordered the internet's restoration, highlighting ongoing political tensions. Internet analysis firms like Kentik note that traffic volumes are still far from pre-shutdown levels, and there are concerns that future access may come with heavier restrictions.