Authorities in Iran have begun to partially restore internet and communications services following a near-total nationwide blackout imposed amid mounting anti-government protests earlier this month. Iranian officials announced that limited connectivity — including access to select online services like Google — has returned for some users, though overall internet access remains heavily restricted and far below normal levels, with monitors reporting only a small percentage of usual traffic.
The blackout, which began on Jan. 8 during nationwide demonstrations over economic hardship and political grievances, cut off most mobile data and broadband, complicating communication and independent reporting on the scale of unrest and government actions. Iranian authorities described the shutdown as a necessary security measure and said phased restoration would occur as the situation stabilized, starting with SMS and some domestic services before broader internet access.
Internet monitoring groups confirmed brief openings of limited connectivity before access fluctuated again, highlighting the controlled nature of the rollout. International observers and rights groups have criticized the shutdown for obstructing human rights and transparency, noting that the disruption coincided with a violent crackdown that rights organizations say has resulted in thousands of deaths and arrests linked to the protests.
This move comes as Iranian officials assert that security has largely returned to affected areas and as protests have eased following the harsh response. — news as reported.
