Key Highlights:

• Monitoring firms report a sudden and sharp drop in connectivity
• Protests erupt after currency collapse and rising prices
• Authorities tighten digital control amid growing unrest

Iran has slipped into a near-total internet blackout as protests spread across the country. Internet monitoring firms reported a sudden collapse in connectivity on Thursday evening local time. The disruption has effectively cut Iran off from the global internet.

Experts tracking global traffic patterns say only a trickle of data continues to flow. For most users inside Iran, the internet appears unreachable. Messaging apps, social platforms, and international websites stopped working within minutes.

What Triggered the Iran Internet Shutdown

The Iran Internet Shutdown comes as public anger grows over the country’s worsening economic situation. The Iranian rial has sharply fallen in value. As a result, prices of essential goods have surged.

Protests broke out in several cities late December. Demonstrations intensified as shortages increased. Reports also say parts of Tehran’s historic bazaar remained shut for over a week. This closure reflects the depth of economic stress felt by traders and citizens.

As protests expanded, authorities moved quickly. Internet access, which remains under strict government control, became the next target.

Monitoring Firms Detect Sudden Blackout

Multiple global tracking platforms confirmed the disruption. Internet traffic dropped across nearly all regions of Iran at the same time. Analysts described the situation as a “near-total blackout.”

Cloud-based infrastructure data showed only minimal activity. Experts say this usually indicates a state-imposed shutdown rather than technical failure. Similar tactics have been used during previous periods of unrest.

Government Control Over Digital Access

Iran maintains centralized control over its internet gateways. This structure allows authorities to restrict or disable connectivity nationwide. Cybersecurity researchers attribute the current blackout directly to government action.

Officials have not issued a public explanation yet. However, past shutdowns followed a similar pattern during moments of political tension.

Why the Shutdown Raises Alarm

The Iran Internet Shutdown limits access to information and communication. It prevents protesters from sharing updates. It also disrupts businesses, banking services, and emergency communication.

For citizens, the blackout deepens uncertainty. For the outside world, it reduces visibility into events unfolding on the ground.