Iran has effectively cut off its internet access as protests escalate across the country, according to multiple cybersecurity monitoring firms. The shutdown began Thursday and represents a near-total disconnection from the outside world, confirmed by researchers at Miaan Group, Kentik, NetBlocks, Cloudflare, and IODA.
Economic Crisis Fuels Unrest
The protests were triggered by a severe economic crisis: Iran’s currency has plummeted, leading to shortages and soaring prices. Some businesses in Tehran have been shuttered for over ten days, demonstrating the depth of the disruption. This isn’t simply an economic issue; it’s a sign of growing public frustration with the government’s handling of the crisis.
Government Response: Total Blackout
The Iranian government, known for its strict internet control, is widely believed to be responsible for the shutdown. According to Amir Rashidi, an Iranian cybersecurity researcher, this blackout is a deliberate measure to suppress dissent. The timing – coinciding with peak protest activity – is no coincidence. Cutting off internet access makes it harder for protesters to organize, share information, and coordinate actions.
Implications of the Disconnect
This shutdown has significant implications:
- Information Control: The government can now tightly control the narrative and limit external reporting.
- Suppression of Dissent: Organizing protests becomes far more difficult without online communication.
- Economic Impact: Further destabilizes an already fragile economy by hindering business and financial transactions.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry’s website was inaccessible at the time of reporting, suggesting a coordinated effort to isolate the country digitally.
This shutdown is a stark illustration of how governments can leverage internet control to suppress dissent and maintain power. The long-term consequences for Iran’s economy and civil society remain to be seen.
