Simay Azadi – As Iran’s nationwide internet disruption entered its 1,728 hour on Sunday, new reports indicated that authorities continue to impose one of the longest and most extensive internet restrictions ever recorded in the country.
According to data published by NetBlocks, the large-scale disruption has severely limited access to the global internet across Iran, deepening concerns over digital repression and communication isolation.
NetBlocks stated that unrestricted internet access during times of crisis is a vital necessity, warning that shutdowns disproportionately harm vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities, students, small businesses, and ordinary citizens.
Iranian authorities have claimed the restrictions were linked to security conditions stemming from the recent conflict involving the United States and Israel, which began on February 28 and lasted 40 days. However, digital rights observers argue that the authorities have used the wartime atmosphere as justification to accelerate efforts toward tighter control of cyberspace and expansion of the country’s so-called “National Information Network.”
The latest restrictions have also revived memories of previous internet shutdowns imposed during periods of unrest in Iran, including during the January 2026 uprising, when authorities severely restricted communications amid widespread anti-government protests. Rights groups and activists accused the government at the time of using the blackout to conceal the scale of the crackdown and deadly violence against protesters.
According to the Iranian dissidents and activists, the current restrictions come amid an intensifying crackdown on dissidents and political prisoners. According to reports by activists and rights monitors, at least 25 dissidents and protesters have been executed in recent months, while internet restrictions have further limited the flow of information from inside the country.
While millions of Iranians continue to face restricted access, reports indicate that government institutions, affiliated organizations, and approved individuals have retained access to international internet services. At the same time, some providers have reportedly offered expensive forms of “tiered internet” access to select groups, fueling criticism and anger among users and digital activists.
Observers say the nationwide shutdown has already surpassed previous global records in both duration and scale for a countrywide internet blackout.
Despite growing reports of economic losses, educational disruption, and social damage caused by the restrictions, Iranian authorities have yet to provide a clear explanation for the continuation of the measures or formally accept responsibility for the prolonged shutdown.