Full Breakdown
Iran's Internet Blackout: Calls for Restoration Amid Growing Discontent
1/26/2026, 2:17:14 AM
Overview of the Internet Blackout
Since January 8, 2026, Iran has experienced a significant internet blackout, imposed by authorities in response to widespread protests that escalated into violence across several cities. This shutdown has left the country's more than 90 million citizens largely disconnected from the internet for over two weeks. The blackout has raised concerns about increasing public frustration and dissatisfaction with the government.
Key Figures and Their Statements
Yousef Pezeshkian, the son of President Masoud Pezeshkian and a media adviser to the presidency, has publicly urged the Iranian authorities to restore internet access. He warned that the prolonged blackout risks deepening public discontent and widening the gap between citizens and the state. In a Telegram post, Pezeshkian stated, "keeping the internet shut will create dissatisfaction and widen the gap between the people and the government." He emphasized that the risks of maintaining the blackout outweigh the potential dangers of restoring connectivity, suggesting that it could lead to increased anti-government sentiment.
Criticism of the Blackout
Pezeshkian's intervention highlights internal concerns within the Iranian government regarding the consequences of extended internet restrictions. Analysts suggest that the blackout may exacerbate unrest rather than restore stability. Pezeshkian acknowledged that while foreign interference has contributed to the protests, mistakes by security forces must also be addressed openly, rather than concealed behind digital shutdowns. He criticized the rationale for the blackout, arguing that it merely delays public exposure to information and videos related to the protests.
Impact on Society
Eyewitness accounts from individuals in Iran reflect the anxiety and uncertainty caused by the blackout. One resident, identified only as Mahsa, expressed the emotional toll of attempting to connect online during these times, stating, “Every time I connect, it takes a year off my life.” Many Iranians are grappling with the dual pressures of government censorship and the fear of repercussions for expressing dissent.
Conflicting Reports on Casualties
The Iranian government has reported a total of 3,117 casualties related to the protests, including 2,427 individuals labeled as "martyrs," a term used for security forces and innocent bystanders. In contrast, the Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights estimates that the death toll could exceed 25,000. This discrepancy underscores the contentious nature of the government's narrative surrounding the protests and the subsequent crackdown.
What's Next?
As the situation evolves, the Iranian government faces mounting pressure to restore internet access. The potential for further unrest looms if connectivity is not reinstated, as citizens increasingly express their dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the protests and the blackout.
Verbatim Quotes
- “keeping the internet shut will create dissatisfaction and widen the gap between the people and the government” — Yousef Pezeshkian, Media Adviser to the Presidency
- “the release of films is something we will have to face sooner or later. Shutting down the internet won't solve anything; it will just postpone the issue.” — Yousef Pezeshkian, Media Adviser to the Presidency
- “Every time I connect, it takes a year off my life,” — Mahsa, Tehran Resident
