Iran has now been under a near-total internet blackout for two weeks since January 8, 2026, with access only to a state-controlled internal network. Although some restrictions on messaging applications have begun to be lifted in recent hours, international connectivity remains minimal and highly filtered.

📌 Context of the blackout

Start of the blockade: January 8, 2026.

Official reason: repression of massive protests triggered by the fall of the rial and extended with demands for political change.

Duration: 14 consecutive days without access to the global network.

Limited access: only to a national intranet with local services and state media.

Main impacts

Communications: citizens cut off from the outside world, making calls, emails, and social media difficult.

Economy: local businesses severely affected, especially e-commerce and international transfers.

Society: uncertainty and misinformation; questions like "Do you have internet? Do you know when it will return?" are repeated in the streets of Tehran.

Signs of partial opening

Messaging applications: since January 22-23, greater availability of WhatsApp, Telegram, and work services has been observed.

VPNs: more tunnels are managing to connect, although with strong filtering ("filternet plus").

Current state: observable international connectivity remains low; there is no official announcement of complete restoration.

Risks and consequences

Political: the blackout seeks to control the flow of information and hide the extent of the repression.

Humanitarian: limits the ability to report abuses and receive international support.

Technological: reinforces dependence on the state intranet, with the risk of prolonged digital isolation.

👉 In summary: Iran has completed two weeks without global internet, with serious social and economic impacts. Although there are timid signs of reopening in messaging apps, the country remains practically disconnected from the world.