Story perspectives

Iran rolls out elite “Internet Pro” after 60-day blackout.

5/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Iranian government launched “Internet Pro,” a program that provides faster internet only to users who show ID and proof of profession, limited to business leaders, doctors, academics and teachers.
The rollout follows a blackout lasting over 60 days, silencing about 90 million people, the longest shutdown since Libya’s six-month cut.
NetBlocks says the shutdown costs $37 million daily, harms roughly 10 million Iranians’ income, yet regime officials and approved influencers keep posting.

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Story summary

The Iranian government launched “Internet Pro,” a program that provides faster internet only to users who show ID and proof of profession, limited to business leaders, doctors, academics and teachers.
The rollout follows a blackout lasting over 60 days, silencing about 90 million people, the longest shutdown since Libya’s six-month cut.
NetBlocks says the shutdown costs $37 million daily, harms roughly 10 million Iranians’ income, yet regime officials and approved influencers keep posting.