Can Iranians still access the internet at all?

Some can, using VPNs or satellite internet services like Starlink. But speeds are often slow, access is unreliable, and many people report being cut off entirely during peak conflict periods.

Why would a government cut its own internet?

Governments cut internet access to slow the spread of information, prevent coordination among protesters or opposition groups, limit foreign media coverage of military operations, and reduce the ability of adversaries to gather real-time intelligence.

Does the Iran internet blackout affect businesses outside Iran?

Yes. International companies with Iranian suppliers, customers, or employees face communication delays and disrupted financial transactions. Journalists and human rights organizations also lose visibility into conditions inside the country.

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Iran's Internet Blackout

Iran operates one of the world's most extensive internet filtering systems — the National Information Network — which allows the government to throttle or completely cut international internet access while keeping domestic services running. During the current conflict, Iran has used this infrastructure to impose rolling blackouts that limit the flow of information about military operations, civilian casualties, and protest activity.