Iran Orders Reopening of Global Internet After Months-Long Blackout Amid Conflict

Iran’s President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has directed authorities to restore access to the international internet following nearly three months of nationwide blackout, according to Iranian state media on Monday.

The directive was issued after an extended disruption that began in the wake of escalating tensions and military strikes involving the United States and Israel. A senior official at Iran’s Communications Ministry, cited by the state-run report, confirmed the presidential order, though details on the timeline and method of reconnection remain unclear.

Data from internet monitoring group NetBlocks indicates that most Iranians have been without full access to the global internet for about 87 days. During this period, only a small number of users with access to advanced and costly virtual private networks (VPNs) were able to bypass restrictions.

The blackout was first introduced on January 8 during nationwide anti-government protests. Although connectivity was gradually restored in February, authorities reportedly imposed another shutdown following renewed military tensions after U.S. and Israeli strikes on February 28.

Iran has long maintained tight control over internet access, blocking numerous websites and promoting a domestic intranet system for essential services. The government has increasingly relied on this internal network, including for educational activities, with schools continuing online learning through local platforms.