Iran's Internet Blackout Sets New Record Amid Ongoing Unrest
Iran is experiencing its most severe internet shutdown in history, according to activists. The blackout has now entered its eighth consecutive day. This surpasses the duration of the internet disruption during the 2019 demonstrations. Global internet monitor Netblocks confirmed this development on Friday.
The prolonged outage continues even as protests have diminished following a violent government crackdown. This shutdown severely restricts the flow of information from Iran. It also isolates Iranian citizens from global communication networks.
Human Cost and International Reactions
The Oslo-based Iran Human Rights group reports nearly 3,500 fatalities since late December. At least 20,000 individuals have been arrested during the demonstrations. Other estimates suggest the actual death toll could be substantially higher.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made a significant pledge on Wednesday. He promised not to execute protesters. This announcement came after US President Donald Trump expressed concerns about potential military action. Trump encouraged Iranians to continue opposing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's rule. He also hinted that assistance might be forthcoming.
President Trump moderated his stance on Friday. He publicly thanked Iranian leadership for suspending scheduled executions. In a social media post, Trump acknowledged the cancellation of over 800 planned hangings. He expressed respect for this decision by Iran's authorities.
Technological Workarounds and Military Tensions
Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service has taken action to support Iranians. The company agreed to waive subscription fees following Trump's appeal. Starlink operates independently from Iran's national telecommunications network. Although illegal in Iran, approximately 50,000 Starlink terminals exist within the country. Activist Ahmad Ahmadian revealed these devices were smuggled through black market channels.
This satellite service provides limited bandwidth for Iranians. It enables them to share social media content with the outside world. These communications offer glimpses into the ongoing situation despite the broader internet shutdown.
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt addressed reporters on Thursday. She stated that President Trump continues to monitor developments in Iran closely. The administration maintains all options regarding potential responses. Fox News reported military sources indicating US assets are moving toward the region. This includes at least one aircraft carrier deploying in coming days and weeks.
Analysts from Eurasia Group published a concerning assessment. They suggest strike probabilities will increase once carrier groups arrive between late January and early February. Elevated risks may persist through the first half of 2026. The analysts noted Iran cannot resolve the fundamental causes of protests. This could reignite demonstrations and provide pretext for military threats.
Economic Context and International Pressure
Iran initiated the internet shutdown on January 8. Authorities aimed to suppress protests triggered by a currency crisis. Hundreds of thousands participated in demonstrations before facing brutal repression. Social media footage from Iran shows security forces shooting and killing protesters during crackdowns.
The 2019 internet blackout followed protests against sudden fuel price increases. That event marked the first time Iranian authorities successfully isolated the population from global communications.
Iran's foreign exchange scarcity remains acute. This situation maintains pressure on the national currency. Official inflation rates hover around 50 percent. Economists expect elevated inflation to continue for weeks and months. The rial's dramatic crash originally sparked the protest movement.
Oil markets showed relative stability despite regional tensions. Prices maintained most of their recent decline as concerns about attacks on OPEC's fourth-largest producer eased.
Political Accusations and Sanctions
Iranian authorities characterize the unrest as a foreign-backed conspiracy. They specifically accuse the United States and Israel of supporting these activities. Official statements claim these governments arm and direct terrorists targeting security forces and civilians.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced potential action. The European Union considers tightening sanctions against Iran. Western governments already maintain extensive restrictions against the country. The United States expanded its sanctions list on Thursday. Additional individuals and entities now face economic restrictions.
Von der Leyen explained the rationale behind these measures during a Thursday appearance in Cyprus. She stated sanctions weaken the Iranian regime. These economic pressures could potentially accelerate political change within the country.
