Internet Blackout In Iran During Conflict

Nationwide Internet Suspension

Iranian authorities established countrywide internet access limitations which remain in effect since the United States and Israel started their military operations against Iran. The restrictions have now entered their fifth consecutive week of implementation. The internet monitoring organization NetBlocks reports that the blackout has continued for 864 hours which equals 36 days. This shutdown period represents the longest uninterrupted internet service interruption which any country has ever documented.

Limited Access and Global Disconnection

The shutdown started on February 28 after joint attacks by the U.S. and Israel. Iran then severed most of its domestic internet system which connected to international online networks. The system provides limited access to internal resources while lack of complete access to international networks prevents users from accessing all online content.
NetBlocks reported that multiple countries including Myanmar and Sudan impose internet access restrictions during emergency situations. The countries studied all imposed internet shutdowns, yet none managed to sustain their shutdowns beyond this time period. The group also noted that North Korea maintained its isolation from global internet access since its establishment through government policies.

Comparison With Other Conflict Zones

Internet access interruptions have occurred in conflict zones such as Ukraine and Gaza. The damage to infrastructure caused these interruptions. Users reduced their online activities because the services maintained operation, yet the country experienced a prolonged period of national service interruptions.

Restrictions on Alternative Access

Iranian authorities have also limited alternative ways to access the internet. The methods of access to the internet which authorities have restricted include: