London-based internet observatory NetBlocks said real-time data showed a near-total collapse in national connectivity, affecting both mobile and fixed-line services. Disruptions were reported in Tehran and multiple provinces, with traffic levels falling to a fraction of normal levels, indicating a coordinated shutdown rather than isolated technical failures.
The outage began on January 8, amid renewed nationwide protests linked to Iran’s deteriorating economic conditions, including high inflation, currency devaluation and shortages of basic goods. While Iranian authorities have not formally acknowledged ordering the blackout, similar disruptions in the past have coincided with periods of civil unrest.
Reuters reported that attempts to reach telephone and internet services from outside the country were unsuccessful, suggesting international gateways were also impacted. NetBlocks said the scale and pattern of the outage were consistent with state-level intervention.
Iran has a long record of restricting digital access during moments of political tension. In previous incidents, authorities have used internet shutdowns to limit the spread of information, restrict protest coordination and control media narratives.
The country operates a highly centralised internet architecture, enabling officials to impose broad restrictions relatively quickly.
The blackout has had immediate consequences beyond public communications. Businesses reliant on online services, digital payments and cloud-based platforms have faced disruption, while citizens have struggled to access banking services, messaging apps and independent news sources. For international operators and technology providers, the incident highlights the ongoing operational risks associated with connectivity in tightly controlled digital markets.
Although partial connectivity has reportedly returned in some areas, monitoring groups said overall access remained unstable, with traffic fluctuating well below normal levels.
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