Iran’s Prolonged Internet Blackout Deepens Amid US-Israeli Strikes and Ongoing Conflict

Iran is enduring one of the world’s longest and most severe internet blackouts, now approaching 27 days and nearly 650 hours of near-total disconnection since late February 2026. The shutdown, triggered by coordinated US-Israeli military strikes on February 28 targeting major cities such as Tehran, has left millions isolated from global communication. As the conflict continues, uncertainty and anxiety among Iranians have intensified, with families unable to verify the safety of loved ones and reliable information scarce amid bombings and government repression.TASS+2

🚫 The Blackout’s Scope and Impact

The blackout began after the February 28, 2026 strikes, with connectivity levels plummeting to just 1% of normal. By March 27, the outage had lasted nearly 650 hours, severely disrupting daily life, business operations, and family connections during the important Nowruz holiday. Authorities have enforced a strict whitelist, permitting only limited online activity, while most international and even internal communications remain inaccessible. This event now ranks among the longest and most comprehensive digital blackouts globally.TASS+1

🛰️ Methods of Circumventing Censorship

Despite the near-total shutdown, Iranians continue to seek alternative communication channels. Many have turned to VPNs, satellite links, and radio broadcasts to access information and connect with the outside world. The Iranian diaspora and social media creators play a key role in sharing updates about ongoing strikes, repression, and daily life under censorship. These efforts underscore the population’s resilience and determination to bypass government controls, even as authorities intensify crackdowns.Radio France Internationale+1

🌍 International and Domestic Repercussions

The blackout has drawn significant international concern, with monitoring groups and foreign governments condemning the suppression of free expression. The Iranian government’s strategy aims to control the narrative during the conflict, but it has also heightened scrutiny of human rights violations and information access. Domestically, the restrictions have deepened public frustration, particularly as families remain in the dark about their relatives’ safety and as critical news about the conflict and retaliatory operations—such as Iran’s strikes on US military bases—remains tightly managed.TASS+1

😔 Human Toll and Growing Uncertainty

As the blackout endures, Iranians report feelings of “almost unbearable” uncertainty about the fate of their loved ones and the evolving situation. The inability to access accurate information or communicate freely has amplified public anxiety, especially amid ongoing bombings and repression. The digital isolation has become a defining feature of daily life, compounding the psychological and social toll of the conflict.Deutsche Welle+1